Asthma is a chronic condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it hard to breathe. It affects children and adults, with symptoms ranging from occasional discomfort to life-threatening attacks.

Although there is no cure, treatment can help control symptoms and reduce the risk of flare-ups.

Common Asthma Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

• Wheezing: A whistling sound when breathing
• Coughing: Often worse at night or early in the morning
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness

Symptoms can come and go. Other conditions can cause similar breathing problems, so an evaluation is important.

Common Asthma Triggers

Triggers vary by person and may include:

• Pollen, dust mites, mold and pet dander
• Smoke and air pollution
• Cold air
• Respiratory infections
• Exercise

Exercise can trigger symptoms, but that doesn't mean you need to avoid physical activity. Ask your provider how to stay active safely.

What Is an Asthma Attack?

An asthma attack occurs when airway swelling and constriction worsen symptoms. Attacks may develop suddenly or gradually.

Follow your asthma action plan and use your prescribed reliever medication as directed.

Call 911 if breathing is very difficult or your prescribed medication is not relieving symptoms during an attack. Do not wait for a routine appointment.

How Is Asthma Diagnosed?

Your provider will review your symptoms, medical history, and possible triggers. Testing may include:

• Spirometry: Measures how much air you breathe out and how quickly
• Bronchodilator testing: Checks whether breathing improves after medication that opens the airways
• Additional testing: Allergy tests or other breathing tests when needed

An asthma or allergy specialist may help confirm the diagnosis or evaluate symptoms that are difficult to control.

Asthma Treatment Options

Treatment is tailored to your age, symptoms, and response to medication. Options include:

• Inhaled corticosteroids to reduce airway inflammation
• Reliever medication to ease symptoms when they occur
• Combination inhalers, some of which provide both preventive treatment and symptom relief
• Additional medicines or specialist care for difficult-to-control asthma

Your provider will explain which medications to use and when. Have your inhaler technique checked, and do not change your treatment without medical guidance.

Signs Your Asthma Needs Review

Contact your provider if:

• Symptoms become more frequent or severe
• You need reliever medication more often than usual
• Coughing or breathing problems wake you at night
• Asthma limits exercise or daily activities

These changes may mean you need to adjust your treatment

Make an Asthma Action Plan

A written asthma action plan should explain:

• Your medications and when to take them
• Your triggers and how to manage them
• What to do when symptoms worsen
• When to contact your provider or seek emergency care

Review the plan with your provider and keep it accessible.

Get Help Managing Asthma

Recurring coughing, wheezing or nighttime symptoms deserve attention. Schedule a visit with tru Primary & Urgent Care to discuss your symptoms, review treatment and determine whether further testing or a specialist referral is needed.