Natural Allergy Asthma - Symptoms and Diagnosis of Asthma

Asthma has a number of symptoms that are quite similar to other respiratory problems. You may not have experienced the problem before, but there are several factors that can trigger it. Most people, however, develop asthma when they were only kids. To properly determine if it is really the problem, you have to distinguish the signs and symptoms and get a clear diagnosis from the right people and using the right tests.

1. Common Signs and Symptoms

Individuals who have asthma usually develop symptoms as soon as the airway becomes inflamed, filled with mucus or tightened. Some of the common symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing at night, chest pain, chest pressure or tightness and difficulty breathing. People with asthma present the symptoms differently. Some will present different symptoms during different times of the day. The frequency and severity will also change between people. One episode can be very severe, and the next, very mild.

2. Relapse Periods

A number of affected individuals can go for long periods without presenting any symptoms. These rest periods can also be interrupted by exacerbation of the symptoms, also known as asthma attacks. Others can also have asthma symptoms each day. A number of people may only have the problem during viral infections and physical activity or exercise.

Mild asthma attacks are usually very common. The airways open up in a few minutes or hours. Severe attacks are not common but are usually longer and will need quick medical attention. It is vital to distinguish and treat the mild symptoms to get rid of severe episodes and maintain asthma properly.

3. Before the Attack

Early warning signs of an impending asthma attack are usually presented by small changes that occur just before or at the start of an asthma attack. The signs can start before the more popular symptoms of the condition present themselves. These signs are usually not very severe so you do not have to cease your plans for the day.

4. Finding the Symptoms

However, once you recognize the signs, you should stop the attack or keep it from becoming worse. Some of the early warning signs include losing your breath quickly while doing physical activity, coughing or wheezing after exercise, feeling upset, moody or tired, feeling tired or weak, minimized lung function, difficulty sleeping and minimal changes in lung function.

5. Symptoms in Children

Chronic coughing among kids is the most obvious sign of an impending attack. It also helps parents recognize whether or not their child really has the problem. Asthma symptoms can start at any age, but the most common usually starts at 5 years old. You also need to watch out for unusual symptoms such as sleep apnea, late reaction to asthma triggers during the day, postnasal drip, sinusitis and changes in hormone levels like epinephrine, histamine and cortisol at night.

You should consult your doctor if you think that you or your child has nocturnal asthma. Nocturnal asthma is described as presentation or exacerbation of the symptoms especially during night time. Quick medical attention is needed.