Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing that are associated with variable airflow obstruction. In susceptible individuals, various environmental triggers cause airway inflammation that results in narrowing of the airways due to muscle contraction, swelling, and increased mucus production. The document discusses the pathophysiology of asthma, different classifications of asthma, and various pharmacological treatments used to counter asthma including bronchodilators, anti-inflammatory corticosteroids, leukotriene antagonists, and monoclonal antibodies.