Asthma is respiratory condition that affects both children and adults. Asthma causes inflammation of the airway, making it hard to breath. A person with asthma may find certain triggers, such as dust or environmental allergies, make asthma symptoms worse. Though asthma can be treated with medications, it is a life-long condition, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Symptoms of asthma may mimic other medical conditions, such as a cold; however a person who suspects asthma should be screened for the condition and seek appropriate treatment to help symptoms.
Coughing
Asthma causes respiratory muscles to constrict, airway tissues to swell and mucous to form inside the respiratory tract. A person with asthma may cough frequently in an attempt to clear her airway and take a better breath. Coughing may increase at night, as lying down may increase the feeling of having a congested airway. Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh advises that chest tightness may occur with frequent coughing, as well. Some asthmatics cough almost constantly, while others have an intermittent cough.
Shortness of Breath
A person with asthma may experience times when his breathing is unrestricted. However, asthma flare-ups, or an asthma attack, occur when the airway becomes irritated and triggers an asthmatic response. During these times, an asthmatic might experience difficulty breathing from airway congestion. He may feel as if he cannot inhale enough to completely fill his lungs. Breathing difficulty may be worse with exercise or exertion. Wheezing--a musical, whistling sound with breathing--may occur, as well, as air moves through irritated respiratory tissue.
Breathing difficulty can often be seen physically, as well. A person experiencing shortness of breath may have nasal flaring, or widened nostrils, in attempt to inhale more oxygen. Retractions may also occur which is the use of accessory muscles to assist with breathing. Retractions cause skin between the ribs is pulled in during breathing, making the ribs stick out prominently during each breath.
Difficulty breathing is a serious symptom and warrants immediate medical attention. A person with either diagnosed or unknown asthma is at risk for respiratory distress if breathing becomes too difficult.
Fatigue
Asthma can reduce the amount of oxygen to the brain. Adults and children with asthma may experience fatigue, or tiredness, as a result. Fatigue may be more prominent when asthma is at its worst. A person with asthma may tire easily with exertion or exercise. Treatment for asthma to reduce airway inflammation and increase oxygen circulation may help reduce fatigue symptoms.
