The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that nearly 25 million Americans are affected by asthma. Asthma manifests when the muscles surrounding the airways constrict and the airway lining becomes inflamed. Mucus blockage further hampers airflow.
### What are the symptoms of asthma?
Asthma symptoms, although they vary from individual to individual, commonly include:
- Difficulty breathing: Struggles with breathing, even while sleeping or talking, due to shortness of breath.
- Persistent cough: A cough that appears at specific times or after physical activity.
- Chest tightness: A sensation of tightness or congestion in the chest due to restricted airways.
- Wheezing: Breathing accompanied by a whistling sound.
- Fatigue: Physical tiredness due to breathing difficulties.
Asthma affects both children and adults by causing the airways to swell and narrow due to muscle contractions or mucus blockages. In addition, both can develop asthma from viruses, colds, the flu, or infections. Though there are commonalities, symptoms can differ among individuals.
### Asthma Symptoms in Children
Pediatric asthma, or childhood asthma, is the most prevalent chronic disease among children, impacting 8.4% of them. Children with asthma encounter more challenges than adults, making it the primary cause of emergency hospital visits among kids.
Common symptoms of childhood asthma include:
- Frequent coughing
- Wheezing or a whistling sound
- Shortness of breath
- Chest congestion
Additional issues asthma can pose in children:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Coughing aggravated by viral infections
- Delayed recovery from illnesses
- Irregular breathing patterns following physical activity
- Fatigue
### Asthma Symptoms in Adults
Asthma that first manifests after age 20 is referred to as adult-onset asthma. Unlike children who might only need medication during asthma attacks, adults may require ongoing daily medication. Adult-onset asthma is often triggered by factors absent in childhood asthma.
Common symptoms of adult-onset asthma include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Dry cough
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Shortness of breath
- Colds that progress to the chest
To manage asthma symptoms and prevent flare-ups, adults with asthma can use inhalers or oral medications that open the airways and reduce inflammation.
### Symptoms of Allergic Asthma
Both adults and children can experience allergic asthma, a respiratory condition where airways constrict due to inhaled allergens like pollen, dander, and mold spores.
Symptoms of allergic asthma closely resemble those of general asthma and include:
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
Allergic asthma can also present symptoms similar to allergic reactions:
- Stuffy nose
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Rashes
- Hives
- Sneezing
Common allergens that can trigger allergic asthma include:
- Dander
- Pollen
- Mold
- Dust mites
- Cockroaches
- Smoke