Asthma is primarily characterized as a disease of?

Asthma is primarily characterized as a disease of airway inflammation. In asthma, the airways become inflamed and narrowed, leading to difficulty in breathing, wheezing, and coughing. This inflammation is a key underlying factor that contributes to bronchoconstriction, where the muscles around the airways tighten, making it harder for air to flow in and out of the lungs.

While bronchoconstriction is a prominent feature during an asthma attack and contributes to the symptoms experienced by patients, the primary pathology of asthma lies in the chronic inflammation of the airways. The inflammatory response can be triggered by allergens, irritants, or environmental factors, leading to changes in the airway structure and increased sensitivity to stimuli.

Understanding asthma primarily as a disease of airway inflammation is crucial for effective management and treatment, which often includes anti-inflammatory medications to help reduce the underlying inflammation and prevent bronchoconstriction from occurring.