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Recognizing the signs and symptoms of asthma is an important part of managing asthma . Knowing when early warning signs or mild symptoms are occurring is helpful so that treatment and other interventions can begin early. Early treatment is most effective. If severe symptoms are present, it is vital to begin the appropriate treatment immediately. Accurate and timely assessment of your symptoms or your child's symptoms can help you and your clinician decide if treatment should begin in the home, at your clinician's office or in the emergency room.
Early Warning Signs of Asthma
Early warning signs are experienced before the start of an asthma episode. By recognizing these clues that occur before actual asthma symptoms, early treatment can be started. These signs are unique to each person. Early warning signs may be the same, similar or entirely different with each episode. Some early warning signs may be noticed only by the individual, while other early warning signs are more likely to be noticed by other persons. In addition, a downward trend in peak flow numbers can be a reliable early warning sign. Some examples of early warning signs are: Breathing changes Sneezing Moodiness Headache Runny/stuffy nose Coughing Chin or throat itches Feeling tired Dark circles under eyes Trouble sleeping Poor tolerance for exercise Downward trend in peak flow number Get a complete checklist of early warning asthma signs
Asthma Symptoms
Asthma symptoms indicate that an asthma episode is occurring. Examples of asthma symptoms include: Changes have taken place in the airways and airflow is obstructed. Individuals with asthma experience some or all of these during an asthma episode. Action should be taken to treat these symptoms before they become worse. Talk with your healthcare provider about having a written asthma action plan. Severe Asthma Symptoms
Severe asthma symptoms are a life-threatening emergency. These symptoms indicate respiratory distress. Examples of severe asthma symptoms include: Severe coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath or tightness in the chest Difficulty talking or concentrating Walking causes shortness of breath Breathing may be shallow and fast or slower than usual Hunched shoulders (posturing) Nasal flaring (Nostril size increases with breathing) Neck area and between or below the ribs moves inward with breathing (retractions) Gray or bluish tint to skin, beginning around the mouth (cyanosis) Peak flow numbers may be in the danger zone (usually below 50% of personal best)
If any of these severe asthma symptoms occur, seek emergency medical treatment right away. Have your asthma action plan for getting emergency care quickly in the event of severe asthma symptoms. Inform family members and those who are close to you or your child of this emergency action plan. Keeping a record of asthma symptoms in a symptom diary may be helpful in determining an action plan. There are many types of diaries available or you can use your own notebook. Some things to watch for and record are: Asthma symptoms and their severity Peak flow numbers and/or peak flow zones School/Work days missed because of asthma Number of nighttime awakenings due to asthma symptoms A change in the use of quick-relief medicine Visits to the doctor Emergency room visits and hospital stays, if any
It is very important to work with your doctor or other healthcare provider to determine the best action plan for early warning signs and for asthma symptoms. These are guidelines and the individual action plan should be determined by you and your healthcare provider. This information has been approved by David Tinkelman, MD (February 2006). |
