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Asthma

Anatomy of Asthma

 

During an asthma attack, muscles around the airways tighten up, making the airways narrower so less air flows through. Inflammation increases, and the airways become more swollen and even narrower. Cells in the airways may also make more mucus than usual. This extra mucus also narrows the airways. These changes make it harder to breathe.

 

Image of normal and asthmatic restricted airways

 

Source: National Heart Lung and Blood Institute

 
Last Reviewed: November, 2006