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Asthma is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors (see articles on risk factors and asthma triggers).
There are two distinct phases to take note of:
Phase 1: Airways partially closed due to inflammation
The airways of asthmatics are always partially closed due to chronic inflammation.
Phase 2: Closing of the airways due to severe inflammation in an acute attack
If anything that triggers or provokes asthma is inhaled and reaches the red, swollen, sensitive inner layers of the airways (the bronchi), the outer muscles constrict, squeezing the already semi-blocked airways nearly completely shut.
The openings in the airways become so narrow that a wheezing or whistling sound is heard.
The underlying, ever-present inflammation may be so widespread in some asthmatics that the airways may be half-closed without them even realising it.
It’s absolutely essential that this chronic inflammation is reduced with the help of daily controller treatment. This will help to control symptoms and prevent permanent damage to the airways.
Reviewed by independent healthcare consultant Prof Praneet Valodia and pulmonologist Prof Elvis Irusen, Head of the Division of Pulmonology at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University. October 2018.
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