This is an AI generated podcast using Tonya Piehl's lecture notes. Asthma is characterized by chronic airway inflammation and variable respiratory symptoms. It details the diagnostic criteria, including variable expiratory airflow limitation and a history of symptoms like wheezing and coughing. The text covers both extrinsic (allergen-related) and intrinsic (non-allergen-related) risk factors, along with assessment methods (physical exam, lab tests, imaging). Finally, it lists treatment options, focusing on medication like bronchodilators and steroids, and oxygen therapy.