Asthma is a condition that is characterized by difficulties in breathing. It is caused by the inflammation of the bronchi. Anyone can catch Asthma although it is common in people with family history and other allergies. One who has this health condition will tend to react by sneezing in the presence of pollen, dust, and such. This condition varies in severity from one victim to another and thus the most important thing is to see a doctor whenever you see signs. Failure to take precautionary measures could lead to an attack, where you have difficulties in breathing.
Asthma is not a “one-size-fits-all” condition. It varies with time and from one person to the other and thus can be difficult to identify. Following are signs that would tell you that you need to see a specialist.
Wheezing
Wheezing is not proof that you have asthma but it’s a common feature that you cannot ignore. When breathing in or out, you’ll hear a whistling sound and this is persistent. Note that not everyone who whistling is a sign of asthma, it is common with some people especially children of under four years and doesn’t necessarily indicate that they have asthma. However, if the sound is not seemingly going away should ring bells in you that you could be having such a condition.
Coughing
Sometimes you have persistent coughing and you don’t have a cold. The coughing may even get worse when you’re around triggers like pollen or strong perfume. It’s not like when you have a cold where you’ve mucus and a bubbly sound. The cough is drier and you most likely force it. In serious cases, you’ll feel like there is an interruption when breathing in. To some people, this can be so severe that you get uncomfortable and detached.
Shortness of breath
This is another sign that can be hard to tell. Sometimes you may have shortness of breath due to some strenuous exercise especially for the unfit. Anyone gets out of breath at some point anyway. However, you must be careful to notice when it is unusual and a sign of a health condition. Increased breathlessness even when in ordinary circumstances could be a sign of asthma. There are people who just wake up and are not able to breathe properly. Some will even get out of breath doing some less rigorous activities like gardening, walking upstairs and such. Therefore, if you notice such a sign reoccurring every other time, you should seek some medical advice.
Chest tightness
Sometimes you may feel like there is a tight band around your chest. This is a feeling that could be due to other reasons but you should never ignore. It is a feeling characterized by the tightness of the chest and this condition persists. Often, this feeling will be accompanied by shortness of breath or even wheezing and therefore the best thing is to see a reputable medical practitioner.
Asthma is a condition that can be managed and when identified in the early stages, it’s effects can easily be suppressed. Thus, whenever you experience such signs, it’s advisable that you see an experienced and reputable practitioner.
