asthma attack
noun phrase
Meaning
A sudden worsening of respiratory symptoms caused by the tightening of muscles around the airways and increased mucus production.
Examples
- He always carries an inhaler in case he experiences an asthma attack.
- Severe pollution levels in the city have led to a rise in emergency room visits for an asthma attack.
Synonyms: breathing difficulty, respiratory distress, bronchospasm, exacerbation