Definition

It is a respiratory disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of difficulty in breathing, wheezing, coughing with productions of mucus in the airway.

Accompanying signs & symptoms

Breathing difficulties, coughing, wheezing and productions of mucus or phlegm in the airway

Possible Causes

Further development from some allergic reactions such as pollen or dust mites or food
Further development from colds and flu
Weak and incompetent immune status

Physiological Mechanisms

A dysfunctional immune system that fails to distinguish false and real threat and overreacts to trivial agents such as dust and temperature changes. Consequently, it results in allergic reactions and signs and symptoms of asthma.

Treatment Modalities

Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture as medium to long term treatment to build up and regulate immune functions

Mechanism of action of the herbs used

Acupuncture and Chinese medicine treats the condition by doing the following:
Reducing the level of harmful hormones in the body which often suppress the normal immune response. 
Restoring the balance of hormonal regulation in the body 
Reducing the stress of the body
Regulating the distorted immune function
Activating the immune system
Promoting detoxification of the body
Relaxing the muscle of the airway and reduces muscular spasm which occurs during an asthma attack
Improving one's energy, vitality and overall wellbeing
Improve one's immune status and physical endurance

Health Advice

Reducing the intake of caffeine and cigarette smoking
Eat a balance diet
Establishing a regular eating habit
Encouraging moderate, regular and outdoor exercises

References

Longman concise medical dictionary, 1994

Chinese-English Manual of Common-Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ou Ming, 1995