Identifying asthma
People with asthma have sensitive airways, when exposures to certain triggers (such as cold air, smoke, exercise, and viruses) the sensitive airways react. They can become red and swollen (inflamed) which causes the airway muscles to tighten and produce excess mucous (phlegm). This makes the airway narrow and difficult for a person with asthma to breathe.
Common symptoms of asthma
- wheezing
- shortness of breath
- coughing
- a feeling of tightness in the chest
- symptoms often occur at night, early morning or during/after activity
A person's asthma symptoms can vary over time- sometimes they will have no symptoms, especially when asthma is well-controlled. Symptoms often vary from person to person.