What does the term "asthma" derive from in Greek?

The term "asthma" originates from the ancient Greek word "asthma," which is indeed connected to the concept of heavy or labored breathing, often characterized by a sensation of breathlessness or difficulty in exhalation. This aligns most closely with the idea of "to pant," as individuals experiencing asthma may find themselves struggling to breathe properly during an attack, often leading to rapid and shallow breaths.

While the other options refer to related respiratory activities—such as wheezing, which is a symptom of asthma, or coughing, which can also occur in some circumstances—the specific etymology ties directly back to the concept of panting or a state of breathlessness. Therefore, understanding this background helps emphasize the connection between the terminology and the physiological experience associated with asthma.