Inflamed bronchial tubes in asthma

Skip Navigation
Lungs in chest showing bronchial tubes in left lung, with detail of healthy airway and airway inflamed by asthma

In asthma, the airways that carry air to the lungs (bronchial tubes) are inflamed. This can narrow the airways, causing shortness of breath and making it hard to breathe.

Current as of: August 6, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.