r at night. There can be warning signs of an attack before it happens, but sometimes there arent any signs at all.Symptoms of AsthmaThe symptoms of asthma can different among people. Usually there is itchy throat, or tightness in the chest, followed by a cough, wheezing, or shortness of breath.It's time to get help if...Your symptoms do not get better with medicine Your breathing continues to get worse after treatment Your fingernails or lips turn grayish or blue It is difficult to walk or talk, or you have extreme difficulty breathing It feels like your neck, chest, or ribs are pulled in with each breath you take Your nostrils flare when you breathe Source: American Academy of Family Physicians Triggers of AsthmaAlthough the specific things that trigger an asthma attack can change from person to person, some common triggers are well known. These include the following:Allergens (substances that people are allergic to) Common allergens include pollen, mold, animal hair or fur, household dust/dust mites, cockroaches, and certain foods. Infections Both bacterial and viral infections can irritate the airways, triggering asthma attacks. Sinusitis (inflammation of the nose and nasal airways) During a sinus infection, mucus draining into the nose, throat, and lungs can cause asthma symptoms. Irritants. Examples of irritants to the airways include strong odors and sprays (perfumes, household cleaners, paints, and varnishes); certain chemicals like coal, chalk dust, and talcum powder; air pollutants; tobacco smoke; changing weather conditions (for example, cold weather). Smoke Inhaling smoke from cigarettes or fires harms the airways and is especially hard on the airways of people with asthma. In fact, cigarette smoking is responsible for more than half of the cases of asthma in people over 40 years of age. Exercise Although exercise is good for people with asthma, it can trigger an asthma attack. People with asthma need to work with their docto...
