Patients with asthma present with recurrent episodes of shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing, or coughing.

Examination typically demonstrates an expiratory wheeze; however, in severe asthma there is poor air entry and the chest is silent.

Lauren Eggert, Clinical Assistant Professor, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, gives us a clinical overview of the condition.

For more on asthma, visit BMJ Best Practice: bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-gb/44

-

The purpose of this podcast is to educate and to inform. The content of this podcast does not constitute medical advice and it is not intended to function as a substitute for a healthcare practitioner’s judgement, patient care or treatment. The views expressed by contributors are those of the speakers. BMJ does not endorse any views or recommendations discussed or expressed on this podcast. Listeners should also be aware that professionals in the field may have different opinions. By listening to this podcast, listeners agree not to use its content as the basis for their own medical treatment or for the medical treatment of others.