Asthma attacks can be mild, moderate, or severe.
With an asthma attack, the air passages in the lungs tighten. The thin, inner linings of the air passage tubes become swollen and inflamed. Mucous produced in these tubes increases and thickens, making it harder to breathe. During an asthma attack, the chest feels tight and it may be difficult to speak. Often it is easier to inhale than to exhale.