Asthma is the result of the airways becoming blocked or narrowed because of inflammation and obstruction. The airways to the lungs become overly active and very sensitive to allergens, air irritants, smoke or viruses, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. The lungs have difficulty moving the air in and out properly, causing obstruction in the airflow. These functional problems result in the many asthmatic symptoms that follow.
Varied Episodes
Some asthmatic patients have periods where they are free of symptoms, but then the episodes return. Some sufferers have asthma symptoms daily. Asthma effects may occur when people are exposed to allergens or respiratory infections. There are asthma patients who get symptoms during exercise. Asthma symptoms are often mild and last for a few minutes to a few hours when the airways open up. There are cases when severe asthma attacks make it necessary to seek immediate medical assistance. Serious attacks may be prevented or limited by treating the mild symptoms when they appear and keeping them under control through medication or inhalers.
Warning Signs
Early warning signs may include frequent coughing, shortness of breath or feeling very tired or weak when exercising, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Coughing and wheezing after exercise may occur. There may be frequent periods of feeling exhausted, moody, being easily aggravated or having trouble sleeping. Respiratory ailments may appear, such as sneezing, runny nose, coughing, congestion, sore throat and headaches. Worsening signs of asthma include a persistent cough that does not go away during the day and night, wheezing, tightness in the chest and a poor response to medication, including a bronchodilator, a drug to help open the air passages.
Severe Attacks
Episodes of late and severe asthma effects need to be taken care of immediately by medical professionals. These episodes may include severe wheezing that occurs when inhaling and exhaling, non-stop coughing, rapid breathing and an inability to catch your breath, pain or pressure in the chest, tightened neck and chest muscles, and difficulty speaking. There may also be feelings of anxiety or panic, a pale or sweaty face and blue lips or fingernails.
Personal Triggers
Not everyone with asthma suffers from the same effects, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention points out. Patients learn to avoid their own triggers when they find out what exactly is causing the asthma symptoms. Triggers may include tobacco smoke, house dust mites, air pollution, pet dander, mold, bad weather such as high humidity or freezing temperatures, certain foods and food additives, and smoke from burning wood or grass.
