Marianna Šeligová, Edita Szaboová-Horňáková, Eva Tedlová, Magda Suchánková
Asthma bronchiale is a chronic inflammatory disease of the respiratory system in which many cells and cellular elements play a role. The chronic inflammation leads to hyperresponsiveness of airways due to narrowing of the respiratory system. Narrowing of air ways is the cause of spasm of bronchial muscles, swelling of the airway wall, increased production of sputum and airway wall remodeling. The person finds breathing difficult, wheezes, and coughs and complains of chest tightness, particularly at night or in early morning. Obstruction of airway is reversible spontaneously or with treatment. Most asthma attacks are caused after exposition of triggers - inhaled substances such as pollen, dust, and animal dander. Food allergies, infections, and emotional stress also can cause attacks.