a disorder in which blocking of the bronchial passages by contractions and mucus causes wheezing and gasping. The precipitating cause is usually an allergen (dust or pollen), irritants like tobacco smoke or pesticides, sensitivity to bacteria, or psychological factors, such as anxiety, panic, and stress, may aggravate or even precipitate an attack. Also known as bronchial asthma.
ASTHMA: "The person with asthma encountered wheezing every time he or she came into contact with a cat, since he or she was allergic to the dander. "
