Symptoms of Asthma
Individuals of any age can find themselves searching for information regarding symptoms of asthma, even adults who have never been affected before. It is a very terrifying feeling when you are unable to breathe at your full capacity but the most important thing to remember is to remain calm. If you are experiencing symptoms for asthma, they will only be worsened with high stress levels or anxiety.
Understanding Asthma
The airways of your lungs are affected by this chronic disease. When you are breathing normal, the bands that surround your airways are able to move freely because they are relaxed. There are three main changes that occur that trigger symptoms of asthma.
- The muscles become tightened that surround the airway, making it much more narrow, often referred to as a bronchospasm.
- There is swelling present in the airway lining.
- The cells found in airways produce an increased amount of mucous which is typically thicker than normal.
Symptoms of Asthma
Not every individual experiences the same symptoms of asthma nor do they suffer from the same intensity level. The most common asthma symptoms include:
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Pain, pressure or tightness in the chest
- Coughing, primarily when you lay down to rest
It is also important to understand that the severity of symptoms of asthma can vary within one affected individual. You can experience minor symptoms one time and suffer from a serious episode the next time.
Symptoms can occur daily or they can be incredibly sporadic. Some people only have symptoms when they are exposed to allergens, have a viral respiratory tract infection or are exercising.
Early Symptoms
Mild symptoms of asthma are much more common than those on a serious level. However, even mild symptoms can turn severe fast and can be deadly. It is important to be able to recognize signs either in yourself or someone else before they have the opportunity to progress.
- Shortness of breath, even with taking just a few stairs.
- Coughing episodes at night that keep you up or wake you.
- Feeling weak or tired when trying to exercise.
- Mood swings and irritability primarily from lack of quality sleep.
- Coughing or wheezing after moderate exercise.
- Signs of allergies, cold or an upper respiratory infection including runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough, headache and congestion.
Severe Symptoms
When symptoms of asthma are severe or left to progress, they can include:
- Uncontrollable cough
- Severe wheezing
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Pressure or pain in the chest
- Retractions in the chest and neck muscles
- Inability to fully exhale
- Anxiety or panic
- Sweaty, pale face
- Lips or fingernails may become blue
If you or someone else is experiencing severe symptoms of asthma, seek emergency medical treatment immediately.