Which condition involves inflammation of the air passages causing difficulty in breathing?

The condition characterized by inflammation of the air passages leading to difficulty in breathing is asthma. Asthma involves the chronic narrowing and inflammation of the airways, which results in symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Triggers for asthma can include allergens, environmental factors, and exercise, which exacerbate the inflammatory response in the airways, making it harder for the patient to breathe.

While other conditions like emphysema, bronchitis, and pneumonia can also affect breathing, they do so through different mechanisms. Emphysema involves the destruction of alveoli, leading to reduced surface area for gas exchange, whereas bronchitis refers to inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which can cause mucus buildup and obstruction but is often linked to chronic coughing. Pneumonia involves an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, leading to fluid or pus accumulation, which can also cause breathing difficulties. However, asthma is distinct in that it is primarily an inflammatory condition that can be triggered by a variety of environmental factors.