J45: Asthma

J45.9: Asthma, unspecified

Asthma, unspecified, refers to a chronic condition that affects the air passages in the lungs. In asthma, the inner walls of the airways that carry oxygen to the lungs become inflamed and swollen, which makes them very sensitive to irritations and prompts a narrowing of the airway. Asthma may present symptoms such as shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, coughing, and wheezing. These symptoms often vary over time, and in severity. While the exact cause of asthma is not thoroughly understood, it is believed that a combination of genetic and environmental factors contributes to the development of the condition. What triggers an asthma flare-up or attack may vary from person to person, but common factors include allergens like pollen, cold air, respiratory infections, and exercise. It is also notable that asthma can start at any age and affects people from various age groups.