Asthma is characterized by episodic reversible airway obstruction, increased bronchial reactivity, and airway inflammation. Complex interactions among inflammatory cells, their mediators, airway epithelium, smooth muscle, and the nervous system lead to asthma. In genetically susceptible individuals, these interactions can lead the patient with asthma to symptoms of breathlessness, wheezing, cough, and chest tightness.
Over the past 40 years, asthma has increased in prevalence (especially among children), morbidity, mortality, and economic burden. Asthma affects more than 300 million people worldwide.
Asthma causes can be allergic or nonallergic. The distinction is important, as asthma-control methods vary.
How familiar are you with the triggers, presentation, workup, and management of allergic asthma? Test yourself with this quick quiz.
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Cite this: Zab Mosenifar. Fast Five Quiz: How Much Do You Know About Allergic Asthma? - Medscape - Feb 13, 2023.
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