Abstract

Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, has been known since ancient times, with descriptions dating back to ancient Egypt. Historically, asthma was perceived as a condition of breathlessness or "air hunger" but lacked clear scientific understanding. Over centuries, progress in anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology has transformed asthma from a mysterious ailment to a well-recognized disease with specific pathophysiological mechanisms. This review traces the historical journey of asthma, from early theories to modern concepts of immunology and airway remodeling. Key advances, such as the discovery of allergens, the role of inflammatory cells like eosinophils, and the understanding of bronchial hyperresponsiveness, have provided insight into asthma's complex pathogenesis. In recent decades, treatments have evolved from basic bronchodilators to sophisticated biologics targeting specific immune pathways. The introduction of personalized medicine, including the recognition of asthma phenotypes and endotypes, marks a new era in asthma management. This article outlines asthma's evolution, mechanisms, and the advancements that have revolutionized its treatment.