Asthma is a common breathing disorder that includes symptoms such as difficulty with breathing and shortness of breath. Anyone can develop asthma at any time of life, and although it cannot be cured, there are ways you can control it. Here are some signs to look out for which can help you take appropriate action.

Unusual coughing

One of the most common signs of asthma is abnormal coughing. If you find you’re coughing on a regular basis (and without being sick with the flu or a cold), this could be a sign that you have asthma. Make sure to note down how much you’re coughing each day, which will help you analyse when it tends to occur the most. In many instances, coughing tends to increase at night.

Lack of sleep

If you’re waking up in the middle of the night from coughing, this can be another symptom of asthma. Getting a good night’s sleep is incredibly important, helping you to feel refreshed and prepared for the day ahead. If you’re struggling with sleep, there are simple measures that you can take to prevent asthma symptoms such as purchasing an organic wool duvet. If you take a look at the website urbanwool.co.uk, you’ll be able to find a range of natural and luxurious wool bedding that can help you get a restful and natural sleep. What’s more, the materials that Urban Wool use prevent bacteria, mildew and mould from growing, which can prevent coughing, allowing you to relax and unwind. With so many benefits of wool, you can be sure to find the best duvet to buy as well as a mattress protector to promote a healthy, comfortable night’s sleep.

Wheezing

If you notice a squeaky noise each time you breathe, this is known as wheezing which is another common symptom of asthma. If you’re experiencing frequent wheezing, it’s important that you make a note of how regularly it occurs, especially if you don’t have a cold.

Respiratory symptoms

There are various respiratory symptoms that can be linked to asthma. These include having a runny nose, frequent sneezing, sore throat, congestion and a headache. If you feel you get sick more frequently than others, it’s best that you visit your GP who’ll be able to give you more information.

Energy levels

Asthma can also be a huge drain on your overall energy levels. If you feel tired throughout the day, even if you haven’t done much activity, this can be another sign of asthma. Not only can it cause you to feel lethargic, you may also experience mood swings and irritation too.

Exercise

When exercising, make sure that you pay close attention to your breathing. If you experience any symptoms such as shortness of breath or difficulty breathing after a workout, this can be a sign of exercise-induced asthma. Symptoms may get worse when you’re exposed to dry and cold air. However, bear in mind that symptoms may not occur consistently after an exercise workout. Asthma can flare up at any given time, so while you may not experience symptoms each time you exercise, there’s a chance that you may still have asthma.

Evaluate risk factors

There are various risk factors that you need to be aware of which can help you determine whether your symptoms are caused by asthma. These can include a relative with asthma, being overweight or obese, smoking regularly, allergies as well as working with chemicals such as those used in farming, manufacturing or hairdressing. Make sure to take some time to analyse your lifestyle, which can help you make certain changes to reduce the risk of asthma.

Seeking medical help

To put your mind at rest, it’s important that you see your doctor who can perform a physical examination to determine whether you have asthma. Getting diagnosed early can make all the difference and help you get a hold of managing and treating the disease. Ensure you let your doctor know about all the symptoms you’re experiencing and how frequently they manifest. A physical exam will then be performed where your doctor can monitor and listen to your breathing with the aid of a stethoscope.

Create an action plan

If you’ve been officially diagnosed with asthma, you can work with your doctor to come up with an action plan to maintain and control the disease. Whether it’s medication or changes to your lifestyle, there are various ways that you can reduce the symptoms of asthma. One of the most common devices you can use is an inhaler, which you should carry with you at all times should you experience an asthma attack.

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed, it’s important that you seek medical assistance as soon as possible. Getting an official diagnosis will not only put your mind at ease but give you the tools to keep control of the disease.

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