The asthmatic patient suffers from attacks which obstruct the flow of air to the lungs. Breathing becomes difficult and forced breathing becomes necessary. A wheezing sound appears due to the rush of air through narrowed airways.At the same time a troublesome cough can develop. Asthma may begin at any age and if neglected tends to recur and may become chronic.

Both rhinitis and asthma may be allergic or non-allergic. In allergic asthma as well as in allergic rhinits environmental allergens cause disease when inhaled or ingested.