Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath may be simply termed as Swasa (Asthma). It may be primary - originating from respiratory system, secondary - originating from other systems of the body but the impact is on respiratory system.

Bronchial Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of airway. It leads to recurrent episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, tightness of chest and cough particularly at night or early morning. As per Ayurveda, Swasa is mainly caused by the Vata and Kapha doshas. Swasa is broadly classified into five types in Mahaswasa (Dyspnoea major), Urdhawaswasa ( Expiratory Dyspnoea), Chinna swasa (Chyne- stroke respiration), Kshudra swasa ( Dyspnoea minor), Tamaka swasa (Bronchial Asthma).