Asthma Signs and Symptoms

Once you know asthma signs and symptoms you'll be able to head off serious asthma attacks before they set in. Most asthma attacks begin with telltale symptoms. If you respond by using your rescue inhaler or by getting some fresh air, you may be able to avoid a full-scale attack.

Tightness in the Chest
Your first sign that you are having an asthma attack may be a feeling of tightening in your chest. What you are feeling is the swelling of your bronchial tubes and bronchia. Think of your bronchial tubes as a set of straws; if the lining of your windpipe swells, the straws gets smaller, which allows less air through. You may feel as if someone is sitting on your chest.

Dry Cough
As your airways get narrower, your body will try to clear them by forcing you to cough. While coughing works to expel mucous, it does not help an asthmatic who is trying to breathe more freely. Instead, the coughing can further irritate your airways, accelerating the attack.

Try to relax and breathe normally. Try not to cough, if possible. However, if holding back from coughing triggers a series of coughs, it's better to allow yourself little coughs to relieve the pressure.

Wheezing
As your airways narrow further, you may begin to hear a squeaking or wheezing sound while you inhale and exhale. This sound tells you your asthma attack is getting serious.

Loss of Consciousness
If your body does not get enough oxygen, you may pass out. It's important to get medical attention immediately if you feel light-headed or feel like you aren't getting enough oxygen. Stop whatever you're doing, sit down and ask for help.

Asthma Prevention
To prevent a serious asthma attack, take the following precautions:

• See Your Doctor: Get a formal diagnosis and appropriate medications. Take these medications faithfully. Carry a rescue inhaler with you at all times.
• Avoid Asthma Triggers: Get to know what things trigger your asthma attacks and find out if you suffer from allergic asthma. It may take several appointments with an allergist to narrow down the specific triggers. You may need to give away pets, change floor coverings, do laundry, clean more frequently or avoid certain foods. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you may need to reduce activity during the times of year when pollen counts are high.
• Use Your Inhaler: At the first sign of an asthma attack, take puffs on your inhaler or use your nebulizer. Don't wait until your asthma gets bad. The more irritated your airway becomes, the worse the attack will be. The inhaler will slow down the irritation.