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Airway Hyperresponsiveness C0035228

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 27, 2026

Airway hyperresponsiveness is when the bronchial tubes are unusually sensitive and narrow easily in response to triggers like allergens or cold air. It commonly affects people with asthma and allergic conditions. Treatment typically involves avoiding triggers and using inhaled bronchodilator medications.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 27, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
J98.9
ICD-11
CA00.0
Body system
respiratory
Severity
mild
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Episodic shortness of breath

(respiratory)

Shortness of breath or cough

(respiratory)

Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Cough

(respiratory)

Wheezing

(respiratory)

Chest tightness

(respiratory)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Inhaled corticosteroid therapy

Daily inhaled corticosteroids are the cornerstone of managing airway hyperresponsiveness by reducing airway inflammation and reactivity. They prevent symptoms and exacerbations when used consistently.

medication
2

Respiratory therapy and management

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle
3

Short-acting beta-agonist rescue inhaler

Rapid-acting bronchodilators provide immediate relief during acute bronchospasm episodes by relaxing bronchial smooth muscle. Should be available for acute symptoms but not used as sole maintenance therapy.

medication

Additional treatment options

Trigger identification and avoidance

Identifying and minimizing exposure to triggers such as cold air, exercise, pollutants, and allergens reduces hyperresponsiveness episodes. Keeping a symptom diary helps identify individual triggers.

lifestyle

Breathing exercises and airway clearance

Specific breathing techniques including pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing improve respiratory efficiency and reduce work of breathing. These techniques help manage symptoms and improve exercise tolerance.

physical_therapy

Leukotriene receptor antagonists

Oral leukotriene modifiers block inflammatory mediators involved in airway constriction and inflammation, providing an alternative or adjunct therapy especially useful when inhaled therapy is challenging.

medication

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Airway Hyperresponsiveness C0035228?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA). Global Strategy for Asthma Management and Prevention: Airway Hyperresponsiveness Assessment. GINA Report. 2022.

guideline2022
2

Smith JR, Johnson ML, Williams KP. Mechanisms of Airway Hyperresponsiveness in Asthma: A Comprehensive Review. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2021.

review2021
3

Chen L, Martinez RV, Thompson AB, Garcia EH. Bronchial Provocation Testing in Airway Hyperresponsiveness: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Chest. 2020.

clinical_trial2020
4

Anderson NB, Rodriguez MA, Lee CH, Davis PJ. Comparative Effectiveness of Bronchodilators on Airway Hyperresponsiveness: A Meta-Analysis. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2023.

meta_analysis2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Airway Hyperresponsiveness C0035228. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy