Asthma is the inflammation of the airways to the lungs that make it difficult for a person to breathe. The bronchial wall muscles tighten and mucus is released from the cells from the lungs which may begin to block the airways. An asthma attack occurs when the airways become so inflamed that it is difficult to breathe.

There are about 20 million people (including adults and children) in the United States with asthma. Asthma is a chronic condition that can be treated in a variety of different ways. Coughing and wheezing are the two most common signs that an asthma attack is coming on.

Signs and Symptoms of Asthma

The signs and symptoms of asthma can range in their severity and the length of time a person feels the symptoms of it. Continued coughing and wheezing is usually a trigger for an asthma attack in some people. Other symptoms and signs include:

• A noticeable increase in having shortness or breath and wheezing.

• Sleep can be disturbed due to coughing, shortness of breath and wheezing.

• The need or feeling the need to increase use of asthma medications in order to breathe properly.

• Chest pain or tightness in the chest.

When Asthma Sufferers Have Chest Pain

The uncomfortable feelings of asthma can cause annoying chest pain or a tight feeling in a person’s chest. Some people with asthma experience this feeling more often than not and have to learn how to cope with it. If asthma is controlled, it will become less frequent of a symptom.

Often people with asthma feel chest pain and associate it with their asthma symptoms, but it can also be a serious sign for a heart attack or angina. If it is a new feeling since developing asthma, it is a good idea to let your doctor know in case it is a heart attack or angina.

Asthma Symptoms Can Be Confused

Asthma symptoms also can often be confused with bronchitis, dysfunction of the vocal cords and serious heart failure.

Asthma Causes

People can develop asthma when they are very young and have frequent infections, certain allergens, or are exposed to high amounts of secondhand smoke.

There are many things that can trigger asthma symptoms in the environment. Allergens, such as pollen or animal dander, smoke, dust mites, cold air, respiratory infections, and chemicals are some examples of how asthma may be triggered in different people.

Know About Asthma

Asthma is a serious disease and should not be ignored. Without treatment it can worsen overall health and can even cause death. Talking to a doctor and becoming familiar with the signs and symptoms of it, and how to treat them is an important part of being diagnosed with asthma. It is also important to not confuse the symptoms of asthma with other health problems and vice versa.

Sources:

http://www.webmd.com/asthma/guide/asthma-symptoms?page=2

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/asthma/DS00021

http://health.discovery.com/centers/articles/articles.html?chrome=c02&article=LC_08&center=p03

http://www.webmd.com/asthma/guide/asthma-relief?page=2