CONDITION 01
Asthma
Airway swelling and narrowing that causes wheeze, cough and breathlessness.
Emergency warning.
If you have severe breathlessness, chest pain that does not ease, blue lips, confusion or are coughing up a lot of blood, call
108
or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Overview
Asthma is a long-term condition in which the airways become inflamed and sensitive. They can narrow, making it harder to breathe. Symptoms often come and go and may be set off by things such as infections, allergens, smoke or exercise.
Symptoms
- Wheezing or a whistling sound when breathing out
- Cough, often worse at night or early in the morning
- Shortness of breath
- Tightness in the chest
- Symptoms that change from day to day
Assessment
- A conversation about your symptoms, triggers and family history
- A physical examination
- Breathing tests such as spirometry, where appropriate
- Further tests if the picture is unclear
Treatment Options
- Inhaled medicines, taken as advised, to relieve and to prevent symptoms
- Identifying and reducing triggers where possible
- Learning correct inhaler technique
- A written plan for what to do when symptoms worsen
When to Seek Care
- Your usual reliever is not helping, or you need it more often than usual
- Symptoms are waking you at night or limiting daily activity
- You are unsure how to use your inhaler
This page is for general education and does not replace advice from your own doctor. See the disclaimer .
Concerned about asthma?
Request a visit and bring your questions. This form is not for emergencies.