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This prevents sufficient oxygen from reaching the alveoli, and consequently less can be transferred to the blood. This makes sufferers feel as though they aren’t getting enough air and so they’re forced to breathe harder and faster. Asthmatics often experience a whistling sound as they breathe in – this is air being forced past the obstruction.

They may also try coughing to dislodge the blockage, but this won’t help as the bronchi themselves are constricted or their lining is thickened. There may also be thick mucus plugs that can’t be dislodged no matter how hard you cough. Asthma symptoms are often worst at night and in the early morning.

If you’re concerned about developing this condition, keep an eye out for the following symptoms:

Adults

• coughing;
• wheezing;
• shortness of breath or rapid, panting breath;
• chest tightness;
• tiring quickly during exercise.

Children

• fatigue and lack of stamina causing the child to slow down or stop play;
• complaints of chest pain;
• avoidance and a refusal to participate in active sports and games.

Infants

• rapid breathing;
• grunting during feeding;
• difficulty feeding.

Symptoms of asthma may develop or worsen when you:

• are exercising;
• are sleeping (or during the night) ;
• come in contact with animals with fur or feathers, house dust mites or cockroaches;
• are exposed to mold, pollen, perfumes or chemicals at work;
• are exposed to high levels of air pollution, smoke and dust from wood-burning fires, cigarette smoke or sudden changes in the weather;
• are suffering from a viral respiratory infection such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or influenza;
• experience a change in hormones, such as at the start of your menstrual cycle or during pregnancy;
• eat foods that you’re allergic to;
• laugh or cry very hard.

Read more:
Your 10 point action plan to manage your asthma
National Asthma Education Programme (NAEP)
Allergy Society of South Africa (ALLSA)
 

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