Asthma is a chronic condition affecting 20 million Americans, reports the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Of that 20 million, nine million are children. Asthma causes an inflammation of the airway of the lungs, and this inflammation causes the airways to narrow and tighten. Smaller airways make breathing difficult and can cause the patient significant distress. Patients with asthma experience periods of normal breathing interspersed with acute attacks of the disease.
Wheezing
People with asthma often wheeze when suffering from an episode of the disease. Wheezing is often described as a slight "whistling" sound that occurs when the asthma suffer breathes.The wheezing only occurs during asthma attacks, and usually begins suddenly. The symptom becomes worse early in the morning or in the evening, and is relieved when the patient takes asthma medication. The wheezing also worsens when patients breathe cold air, exercise, or experience heartburn or acid reflux.
Shortness of Breath
Asthma can also cause shortness of breath. The disease makes it difficult to get air in and out of the lungs. This difficulty may become so severe that patients will not be able to receive enough oxygen for their bodies. The shortness of breath most often occurs when the patient is exercising or performing strenuous physical activity. The shortness of breath can happen so frequently and be so severe that patients will have difficulty sleeping.
Cough
Coughing is one of the symptoms often experienced by asthmatic patients. The cough can be produce phlegm or be dry, depending on whether the patient's airways are producing mucus because of the asthma-induced inflammation. The cough is the body's response to the swelling of the airways. The body is attempting to clear the airway and make way for air to get to and from the lungs. However, since the airway itself is blocking the airflow, coughing is ineffective. The cough can be accompanied by chest pain and these symptoms can prevent the patient from sleeping properly.
Emergency Symptoms
Certain symptoms of asthma indicate a clinical emergency, according to the New York Times, and require immediate emergency medical attention. Such symptoms can include a bluish color in the face, rapid pulse, sweating, drowsiness, and extreme shortness of breath.
