Asthma Symptoms

Reviewed by Dr Claudia Pastides, 17th April 2019

Bronchial asthma can start at any age but it is very common in childhood. Although some children can grow out of asthma, there are millions of adults that deal with the long term condition. Asthma causes breathing problems, and it’s important to understand the symptoms and know how to control them.

The most common asthma symptoms include:

• Breathlessness
• Wheezing – a whistling sound when breathing caused by a narrowed airway
• Coughing – this may bring up mucus
• Chest pain – feels like a band tightening around the chest

These symptoms can also flare up at night and early in the morning, making it difficult to sleep. If you think you have multiple symptoms of asthma and haven’t been diagnosed, book to speak to an online GP today.

Asthma attacks

An asthma attack is a sudden or gradual worsening of asthma symptoms. Severe asthma attacks can be very dangerous, and sufferers should know what to do in the event of an asthma attack. Signs to watch out for:

• Constant coughing and wheezing
• Increase in breathlessness which makes eating or speaking difficult
• Rapid heartbeat
• Dizziness and confusion
• Fainting

Sometimes, someone having an asthma attack requires emergency hospital treatment. You can try and prevent asthma attacks by avoiding triggers, taking all medicine as prescribed and having asthma reviews at least once a year with your GP.

The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Seek the advice of a doctor with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never delay seeking or disregard professional medical advice because of something you have read here.