Asthma alert: Grown-ups get it, too

By William Weese, M.D.


Lately, your morning walks leave you out of breath and wheezing. Or, maybe you've been having bouts of coughing in the evening. A friend suggests your breathing troubles could be asthma. And, you think, But, doesn't that start when you're a kid?

Indeed, asthma is diagnosed most often in children. But, adults of any age can develop it, too.

4 signs it may be asthma
If you have asthma, it means your airways become inflamed and narrow. The result is limited airflow into your lungs. This can cause episodes of:

• Coughing. It may be worse at night or early in the morning.
• Wheezing. You may hear a whistling or squeaky sound when you breathe.
• Shortness of breath, which might happen when you exercise.
• Chest tightness. It may feel as if you can't take a deep or satisfying breath.

You can have just one of these symptoms and still have asthma. And, it's not the only possible explanation. Other conditions can cause similar symptoms, including:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Angina — chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart doesn't get enough oxygen
• Certain lung problems

That's why seeing your doctor for a proper diagnosis is so important. Providing a clear description of your symptoms — and what seems to trigger them — can help your doctor determine the cause. You may need medical tests, as well — such as those used to measure lung function.

Why now? If you've never had breathing problems, you might wonder why you'd develop asthma as an adult. Often, allergies play a role. Even an allergy you've had for years may just now be triggering breathing problems. Or, over time you may have become sensitive to substances in your environment, which are causing your symptoms.

For example, allergens or irritants — such as mold, dust, tobacco smoke and even strong smells — may make your airways swollen and sensitive. In some people, colds or other infections can trigger asthma.

Partner with your doctor to form a plan
If you're diagnosed with asthma, it's vital that you keep it controlled. Untreated, your symptoms may get worse — and put you at risk of a severe asthma attack. This is a medical emergency and can be fatal. Approximately 3,500 people die from asthma each year in the United States — more than nine people a day, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Work with your doctor to create an asthma action plan. See "Plan in hand: Control is the goal!"

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