Frequently asked questions about asthma
What is asthma?
Asthma is a common respiratory condition that affects the airways. Asthma causes inflammation of the lungs, which can narrow the airways and make breathing more difficult. Asthma is a long-term condition and varies from patient to patient in severity. For that reason, being able to manage asthma effectively is important.
Can you develop asthma later in life?
Yes. Asthma can develop at any age, and if you're experiencing any of the symptoms listed here it's very important to see your GP for further assessment. Unmanaged or under-managed asthma can be life-threatening - and because asthma developed in adults tends to be longer-term than that in children, prompt treatment is a must.
What are the symptoms of asthma?
Common signs and symptoms of asthma include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness or pain
- Wheezing when exhaling (a common sign of asthma in children)
- Trouble sleeping caused by shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing
- Coughing or wheezing attacks worsened by a respiratory virus, e.g. a cold or the flu
What is an asthma attack?
When an asthma attack occurs, the airways become swollen and inflamed, and the surrounding muscles contract. This produces extra mucus, which then causes the breathing (bronchial) tubes to narrow.
During an asthma attack, it's common to experience shortness of breath, wheezing, and tightness of the chest. Some sufferers may present primarily with coughing, while for others air motion may be impaired to the point that no wheezing is heard. It is common for children to present with chest pain during asthma attacks alongside other symptoms.
Is asthma curable?
Unfortunately not. However, with the right treatment, the overwhelming majority of people will be able to live fulfilling and comfortable lives. In fact, many people with asthma respond well to treatment, whereby the condition is easily manageable.