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 In
understanding and identifying the asthma symptoms and signs, it is important to
understand that the degree to which an individual may be affected by this
disease vary widely. In its most severe form, the sufferer will evidence chronic
respiratory impairment. Other individuals may undergo episodes of attacks,
varying in degrees of severity, and continue to function reasonably well in
between with only mild evidences of shortness of breath.
Another factor that has to be considered in identifying this disease is that it
can resemble in it's symptoms those of other conditions such as bronchitis and
emphysema. In order to confirm definitively that a person has asthma, you may
have to undergo numerous medical tests such as x-rays and blood tests. A
spirometry procedure that measures the amount of air taken in to the lungs and
released may need to be conducted as well.
Primarily, an asthma attack, will be evidenced by shortness of breath and
wheezing. This may be accompanied by a high pitched sound emanating from the
throat area that is universally an indicator of blockage. This is referred to as
'stridor'. There may also be persistent coughing that may or may not produce
clear sputum. And there is typically a feeling of tightness in the chest area,
an inability to relax and to take in sufficient air. It is good to keep in mind
as always, that not everyone will follow a typical pattern and a diagnosis may
only come about after some thorough testing.
Other signs may include a rapid heart rate and a rattling or gurgling sound from
the lungs, that may only be detected by a stethoscope, and this is an indicator
that some secretions or mucous swelling is taking place. The individual's pulse
may also vary in that it is weaker when they breathe in and stronger when they
are trying to exhale. Neck muscles and rib muscles will show signs of strain as
the person struggles to get enough air.
In severe attacks the asthmatic may not only experience bad chest pain - they
may also begin to turn blue and lose consciousness as a result of the lack of
oxygen. This in turn may result in their limbs feeling numb and their feet
feeling cold. This is a life threatening situation and immediate medical help
must be sought.
Because of the varied number of triggers and allergens that can accost an
individual, not to mention the increasing stress of our times, it only adds to
the potential of increased episodes occurring. These attacks can be sudden, and
even surprising because very often a sufferer may be able to function well for a
good amount of time in between them. It takes a good understanding of not only
of how this disease works but also of what potential problems can exist in every
day activities in order to react as swiftly and calmly as possible to treat the
situation and prevent a worse outcome. This can be referred to as a personal
plan of action. By coordinating with your doctor and implementing the knowledge
that is available to you, you may be able to carefully monitor your health and
get ever better control of your condition. Being able to recognize these asthma
symptoms early, especially before a severe attack happen, is a life-saving
effort in itself. Find
out more about asthma symptoms now!
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