When would asthma be considered a chronic condition?

Donna Hill Howes, RN

Family Practitioner

Asthma is an airway disease, sometimes reversible, where there is a narrowing of the airways and increased sensitivity of the lining of the airways to certain substances. When the airways lose the ability to return to the person’s normal condition, the condition is considered chronic or non-reversible. That is why it is so important to continue treatment for asthma even if you are not having outward symptoms. Your airways may be changing (called re-modeling) even without obvious symptoms.

Continue Learning about Asthma

Asthma, a condition that makes breathing difficult, can be triggered by a number of factors, like pollen, smoke and cold air. Watch this video to lear...

Here's What You Should Know About Your Lungs

Get an up-close look at your lungs to learn how air travels and how to care for them in this 360-degree virtual reality video.

Asthma is a condition that narrows a person’s airways, making it difficult to breathe. There are a few different subtypes of asthma, one of which is e...

Managing your child’s asthma doesn’t have to be difficult. Talk to your doctor, set up an “asthma action plan” and research medications to give your c...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Asthma

Asthma can be mild or severe, and is classified by how your breathing is affected. Most alarming are asthma attacks, episodes of severe coughing or wheezing where it is very hard to catch your breath; but asthma can also be a chronic condition. Treatment is by anti-inflammatories and bronchodilators.

Learn More

Features:

Condition Headquarters:

When would asthma be considered a chronic condition?

Continue Learning about Asthma