Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects about one in ten people. It causes the airways to become inflamed and the muscles that control breathing to constrict, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing. Triggers can include cold air, stress, pollen, exercise, and viral infections. In severe cases, asthma attacks can be life‑threatening. The condition varies in severity, and effective management often involves medication, inhaler use, and support from healthcare professionals such as pharmacists.