How can asthma be defined in simple terms?

Asthma can be defined in simple terms as a chronic disease that affects the airways in the lungs. This definition is accurate because asthma is characterized by ongoing respiratory issues that result from inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it difficult for individuals to breathe. It is not just a temporary condition; it can vary in severity and require long-term management.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture what asthma is. For example, describing asthma as a virus misrepresents it, as it is not caused by an infectious agent but rather is a long-lasting condition. Similarly, saying it is a temporary illness disregards the chronic nature of asthma, where symptoms can persist or recur over time. Lastly, while asthma can lead to symptoms that may resemble pneumonia, it is not pneumonia itself. Understanding asthma as a chronic airway disease helps to emphasize the need for ongoing treatment and management strategies to maintain control over symptoms.