Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of people globally. It is characterized by narrowing and inflammation of your airways. Asthma comes with a number of unwanted and painful symptoms. This includes wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. The condition can negatively impact your daily life and requires intervention. A customized treatment plan can improve your symptoms and ensure your long-term health. This can include both medication and environmental modifications. Below you will find more information on how to identify an asthma cough: top signs.
How to identify an asthma cough: top signs
Having a persistent cough can negatively impact your daily life. You may think it’s the common cold or another seasonal illness at first. However, a persistent cough can be a sign of asthma. Asthma requires a treatment plan to not only manage symptoms but ensure your long-term health. Below are some signs that your cough may be asthma-related.
- Wheezing Sounds: Wheezing often occurs when you cough, and it is characterized by a high-pitched sound
- Persistent Coughing: Persistent coughing that lasts for weeks is not normal
- Difficulty Breathing: Coughing coupled with shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- When You Cough: Your airways can become more inflamed and constricted early in the morning or late at night
- Certain Triggers: Asthma can be triggered by allergens, including pollen, dust mites, pet dander
- Physical Activity: Some types of asthma can be triggered by physical activity and can cause coughing
- Persistent Symptoms: If you experience a number of asthma-related symptoms for weeks it’s a good indication there is an issue
Cause of Asthma
Asthma is a highly complex condition. There has been extensive research on asthma and the cause is not fully understood. However, there are a number of factors that increase your risk of the condition.
Family History:
As with many medical conditions, asthma is genetic. A family history of the condition can increase your risk of asthma.
Environmental Factors:
Exposure to certain environmental factors is linked to asthma. This includes irritants and pollutants, such as smoke, air pollution, and chemical fumes.
Allergic Reactions:
Allergens are linked to asthma as they can lead to an immune response. This can cause inflammation in your airways and other asthma-related symptoms. Things like pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, and certain foods can cause this.
Maternal Health and Exposure:
Some children develop asthma due to their exposure in the womb. If a woman smokes during pregnancy, has a respiratory infection, or is exposed to allergens or pollutants, it can impact the child’s lungs later on.
Obesity:
Excess weight can cause inflammation in your body. This can affect your airways and contribute to the development of asthma.
Asthma Treatment for Children
Asthma impacts millions of people around the world. The condition can be particularly difficult for children. This is because it can impact their development. Common symptoms of asthma in children include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and rapid breathing. These symptoms may worsen during physical activity or at night. It’s important to seek medical care for your child if they experience any of these symptoms.
If your child has any asthma-related symptoms, contact a kids pulmonologist in Glen Oaks. They can provide your child with an accurate diagnosis. Once diagnosed, a customized asthma treatment plan can be created. Each patient is different but there are a number of effective ways to manage your child’s symptoms. A combination of medications, inhalers, and environmental modifications can be highly effective. Additionally, an asthma action plan can be used to ensure your child is safe and healthy at the earliest signs of an asthma attack. Contact Dr. Shukla today to schedule an appointment!
