When we breathe, air passes through our airways (the tubes that
carry air into and out of the lungs) to get to our lungs. In
someone with asthma, the airways are inflamed, which means that
they swell and produce lots of thick mucus. The muscles surrounding
the airways also tighten, which makes the already clogged airways
even narrower. These narrow, swollen, and mucus-filled airways are
obstructed - in other words, they don't let air through as
easily as healthy airways. Obstructed airways can lead to symptoms
such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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