Written by Adult Asthma
What is Adult Asthma?
Asthma is a long-term condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it harder to breathe. While often diagnosed in childhood, asthma can also begin or persist into adulthood. Symptoms may vary over time and can be triggered by allergens, infections, or irritants.
Symptoms & Red Flags
- Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing)
- Shortness of breath
- Tightness in the chest
- Coughing (often worse at night or early morning)
Red flags – seek urgent help:
- Severe shortness of breath at rest
- Difficulty speaking full sentences
- Bluish lips or fingers
- Symptoms not relieved by a reliever inhaler
Screening & Diagnosis (UK)
Diagnosis is usually made by your GP or a respiratory specialist. Tests may include:
- Spirometry: measuring lung function by blowing into a machine.
- Peak flow monitoring: measuring airflow at home over several weeks.
- Allergy tests: to check for triggers.
Treatment & Self-Management
Asthma treatment is tailored and often involves:
- Reliever inhalers: provide quick relief of symptoms.
- Preventer inhalers: reduce inflammation when taken daily.
- Combination inhalers: combine both preventer and long-acting relievers.
Self-management includes:
- Following a personalised asthma action plan from your GP or nurse.
- Regular asthma reviews at your GP surgery.
- Recognising and avoiding triggers (e.g., smoke, pollen, pets).
- Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight.
Lesser-Known Evidence-Backed Options
- Pulmonary rehabilitation: helpful for people with severe asthma to improve lung strength.
- Biologic therapies: injections for severe, uncontrolled asthma under specialist care.
- Breathing techniques: such as the Buteyko method or physiotherapy-guided exercises may reduce symptoms.
- Vaccination: flu and COVID-19 vaccines reduce risk of serious illness.
FAQs
Can asthma go away in adulthood?
Asthma may improve, but many adults will continue to need treatment. Regular reviews are important.
Is exercise safe with asthma?
Yes, with proper management. Warm-up, use reliever inhalers as directed, and avoid triggers such as cold air.
Can stress trigger asthma?
Yes. Stress and strong emotions can worsen symptoms in some people.
References