What Is Bronchial Asthma?

Bronchial asthma is another name for asthma – a long-term lung condition that affects the airways, or bronchial tubes, in your lungs. It causes them to become swollen, narrow, and filled with mucus, making it harder to breathe. Bronchial asthma can range from mild to severe and can affect both children and adults [1].

How does bronchial asthma affect the lungs?

In people with bronchial asthma, the airways become:

Inflamed – they swell up and become irritated
Narrow – the muscles around the airways tighten
Blocked with mucus – making it even harder to breathe

This makes the lungs very sensitive and can lead to symptoms, especially when triggered by certain things like pollen, smoke, or cold air.

What are the symptoms of bronchial asthma?

The most common symptoms include:

Coughing, especially at night or early morning
Wheezing – a whistling sound when breathing
Shortness of breath
Chest tightness or discomfort

Symptoms can come and go, and they may get worse during an asthma attack.

What causes bronchial asthma?

Experts don’t know exactly what causes asthma, but it’s believed to be a mix of:

Genetics – if asthma runs in the family
Environmental factors – such as air pollution or allergens
Triggers – like exercise, cold weather, smoke, or infections

What triggers bronchial asthma symptoms?

Common asthma triggers include:

Dust mites and pollen
Pet fur or dander
Cold air or weather changes
Exercise, especially without warming up
Viral infections like colds or flu
Strong smells or fumes

How is bronchial asthma treated?

Asthma can’t be cured, but it can be managed with the right treatment [2]. This usually includes:

Reliever inhalers (usually blue) – used when symptoms appear
Preventer inhalers – taken every day to reduce inflammation
Combination inhalers – for people with more severe asthma
An asthma action plan – a personalised guide to manage your condition

Can bronchial asthma be dangerous?

Yes, if not treated properly. Severe asthma attacks can be life-threatening. But with the right medication and regular check-ups, most people with asthma live full and active lives.

When should you see a doctor?

Speak to a GP or asthma nurse if you:

Have frequent asthma symptoms
Need your reliever inhaler more than 3 times a week
Wake up at night due to coughing or breathing problems
Notice your asthma is getting worse

Key Takeaways

Bronchial asthma is another term for asthma, a long-term condition that affects the airways in the lungs.
It causes symptoms like coughing, wheezing, breathlessness, and chest tightness.
Triggers include pollen, cold air, exercise, and infections.
Treatment includes daily preventer inhalers and quick-relief inhalers for symptoms.
With proper care, most people with asthma can manage their condition and live normally.

Reminder: Always follow your asthma action plan and attend regular asthma reviews. If your symptoms change or become more frequent, speak to a healthcare professional.

Sources

[1] Ukena D, Fishman L, Niebling WB. Bronchial asthma: diagnosis and long-term treatment in adults. Dtsch Arztebl Int. 2008 May;105(21):385-94. doi: 10.3238/arztebl.2008.0385. Epub 2008 May 23. PMID: 19626179; PMCID: PMC2696883.

[2] Punita R Maurya, Yadunath M Joshi, Vilasrao J Kadam. A Review on Bronchial asthma. Research J. Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics. 2013; 5(4). 257-265.