Early warning signs of asthma
Asthma does not always begin with a dramatic attack. Often it starts quietly, with a cough at night or breathlessness while climbing stairs. Recognising these early signs leads to earlier diagnosis and far better control.
Early signs to watch for
- A dry cough that is worse at night or early morning.
- Wheezing or a whistling sound while breathing out.
- Breathlessness or cough during exercise, laughing or in cold air.
- Chest tightness, or feeling you cannot take a full breath.
- Colds that "go to the chest" and take weeks to settle.
- Symptoms triggered by dust, smoke, pets, pollen or strong smells.
Early signs in children
- Repeated night-time coughing or wheeze with colds.
- Getting tired or breathless faster than other children while playing.
- A family history of asthma, eczema or allergies.
What to do next
If these symptoms sound familiar, see a doctor for an assessment. Spirometry, a simple breathing test, helps confirm asthma. Once diagnosed, regular preventer inhalers taken with correct technique allow most people to live without limits.
Get emergency help if you are too breathless to speak, your lips look bluish, or your reliever inhaler is not helping.
Frequently asked questions
Can asthma start in adulthood?
Yes. Asthma can begin at any age, including in adults with no childhood history.
Is a cough alone a sign of asthma?
It can be. In cough-variant asthma, a persistent dry cough is the main or only symptom.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for general education and is not a substitute for a personal consultation. Do not start, stop or change any medication on the basis of this page. For advice specific to you, consult Dr. S.A. Rafi at City Chest Clinic, Mehdipatnam, Hyderabad.
20+ years of pulmonology practice in Hyderabad. Director of City Chest Clinic, Mehdipatnam and Chief Consultant Pulmonologist & Sleep Specialist at KIMS Hospitals, Gachibowli.
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