Asthma is often misconstrued as a children’s disease, the type of thing you grow out of. However, this is not the truth. Many adults actively struggle with asthma symptoms, and some adults don’t even realize what they are dealing with.
Adult Asthma
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a respiratory condition caused by a sudden constriction of air passages in the lungs called bronchi. When these bronchi constrict, it makes it difficult to draw air into one’s lungs, resulting in coughing, chest pain and wheezing. Adults often notice these side effects when they’re exercising or otherwise respirating heavily.
Many people who aren’t often active may even be unaware of their own asthma. These symptoms, to them, simply feel as though they are out of shape or short on breath. These people are often too embarrassed by their physical state to seek out help.
Could You Have Asthma?
Here’s the thing: asthma is a serious issue. If you feel like something isn’t right with your breathing, you need to seek help from your doctor. If you had asthma as a child, you’re at a much higher risk of having the condition as an adult. Some women are at higher risks of developing asthma after becoming pregnant or experiencing menopause.
People with acid reflux are also at an increased risk of developing asthma. Additionally, if you experience seasonal allergies, you could be at a higher risk of developing the breathing condition. When you feel like something isn’t right with your breathing, it isn’t something you should ignore. See your doctor about any abnormalities with your respiration.
Seeking Treatment
Your doctor can diagnose what your breathing issues are. When you feel as though something isn’t right, don’t hesitate to see a medical professional. If you’re diagnosed with asthma, you may be prescribed an inhaler. Inhalers contain medication that is to be inhaled in order to relief the bronchial spasms that constrict breathing.
Asthma attacks can be deadly if they lead to unconsciousness. Essentially, sufficiently serious asthma attacks cause the victim to suffocate. If you have an inhaler with you, however, you can simply administer the medicine to allow your lungs to return to a normal breathing pattern. This could be potentially life-saving!