Final answer:
Asthma results in inflammation and narrowing of airways, bronchospasms, and excessive mucus, causing difficulty in breathing and symptoms like chest tightness and wheezing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the respiratory system. During an asthma attack, there are three primary changes that occur in the airways: inflammation and edema of the airway lining, bronchospasms (or narrowing of the bronchioles), and excessive mucus secretion.
These changes lead to obstruction of the airways, making it difficult to breathe. Cells of the immune system, such as eosinophils and mononuclear cells, may infiltrate the walls of the bronchi and bronchioles contributing to the symptoms. Those with asthma may experience chest tightness, wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing, particularly at night or early in the morning. Asthma triggers can include allergens, cold air, exercise, and stress, among others. Management of asthma involves avoidance of known triggers and the use of medications to reduce inflammation and ease breathing.