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Possible Symptoms of Asthma
Possible Symptoms of Asthma
Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath occurs when you're not getting enough oxygen, leaving you to feel like you need to breathe harder, quicker and/or deeper. And, if you feel like you're not getting enough oxygen, your organs aren't either — which can have serious short-term and long-term consequences to your health.
Chest Tightness or Pain
Chest tightness is a common symptom in people with asthma and may be accompanied by wheezing, shortness of breath, and coughing. Chest tightness may be a sign that an asthma attack is coming on or that your asthma is worsening. In some cases, it may be a sign of serious heart and lung problems.
Wheezing when Exhaling
Wheezing is generally a higher-pitched whistling sound that occurs most commonly when you breathe out. Wheezing may result from localized or diffuse airway narrowing or obstruction from the level of the larynx to the small bronchi. The airway narrowing may be caused by bronchoconstriction, mucosal edema, external compression, or partial obstruction by a tumor, foreign body, or tenacious secretions.
4. Trouble Sleeping caused by Shortness of Breath, Coughing, or Wheezing
Many asthma patients report trouble sleeping. Those with allergies and asthma may not sleep an adequate amount due to congestion, secretions, snoring, nighttime coughing, wheezing and breathing issues. Untreated sleep disorders may worsen asthma and decrease your quality of life.
5. Coughing or Wheezing Attacks that are worsened by a Respiratory Virus (e.g., cold or flu)
If you have asthma, even a mild cold can lead to wheezing and tightness in your chest. Colds and the flu are among the most common causes of asthma flare-ups, especially in young children. Regular asthma medications may fail to relieve asthma symptoms associated with a cold or the flu. Also, asthma symptoms caused by a respiratory infection may last for several days to weeks and aspects like coughing or wheezing will worsen when sick with illnesses of this nature.
If you think you have asthma, contact your doctor. Early diagnoses and treatment of asthma may prevent long-term damage and help prevent the condition from worsening over time.
Description of an Asthma Attack
During an asthma attack, also known as an asthma exacerbation, the airways become swollen and inflamed. The muscles around the airways contract and the airways produce extra mucus, causing the breathing (bronchial) tubes to narrow. During an attack, you may cough, wheeze and have trouble breathing.
What to do if you see an Attack?
Help the person experiencing an asthma attack sit upright in a comfortable position.
Help them use their inhaler .
-When someone has an asthma attack, their airway narrows, making it difficult for them to breathe. Their inhaler will relax the muscles, allowing the airways to expand and ease their breathing.
In addition, it is important that you constantly reassure the person.
Pay attention to whether or not the attack is getting better or worsening.
- If it is improving, then continue to provide your support and presence until they have recovered.
-If the attack is worsening, call 911 for immediate professional care.
Animation: Steps of Asthma First Aid
Example of Helping Someone During an Asthma Attack
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