The word asthma has originated from an ancient Greek word meaning panting. Essentially asthma is a chronic and recurring inflammation of the airways (bronchi) that results in obstruction of air flow. Asthma is very common all over the world, in all age groups. It may start in as early as months old baby to elder age group. Asthma is largely controllable and to an extent curable, depending on the stage and extent of the disease.