Recognizing Cough As a Symptom of Asthma
Ongoing (chronic) cough is usually related to various diseases such as asthma. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, a chronic cough can last for at least 8 weeks or more. Persistent cough is one of the signs of asthma. It can also be one of the most disturbing symptoms of asthma if left untreated. Learn more about asthma cough and how to treat symptoms of this chronic condition.
Identify asthma cough
The basic function of cough is to protect the lungs from developing the infection, but coughing can also make you frusteasi. There are two types of cough: productive and nonproductive. When cough is described as productive, it means that coughing sputum, also allows the lungs to escape from harmful substances.
Coughing in people along with asthma is able to help because coughing is one of the body's natural defense mechanisms. Productive asthma cough can repel phlegm and mucus from the lungs. However, most cases of asthma cough are considered unproductive. In other words, it is a dry cough, which is a response to irritation that forces the bronchial tube to seizure (or constriction). Asthma is characterized by swelling (inflammation) and airway narrowing, which causes the type of cough unproductive. Asthma cough is also often accompanied by wheezing. This is a high-pitched whistling sound, which is the result of narrowing of the respiratory tract.
Symptoms of asthma cough
Cough is indeed the most common symptom of asthma. In fact, sometimes the only symptom of this condition. However, when you ind out whether your cough is caused by asthma or not, it will be helpful to assess any other potential related symptoms you may have. Other asthma symptoms may include:
- tightness in the chest from excessive cough
- wheezing
- exhausted from coughing at night
- difficulty exercising
- prolonged illness and infection
- hard to breathe
With asthma, cough can be disruptive, especially at night. Makes you difficult to sleep soundly and sometimes requires special care. A night cough most often associated with asthma or other respiratory problems such as emphysema. It is also important to understand symptoms that are not related to asthma cough. Look for emergency medical help if your cough is accompanied by:
- chest pain
- coughing up blood
- high or persistent fever
- lose appetite
- sweating at night
- difficulty speaking because it is difficult to breathe
- skin discoloration due to difficulty breathing
- limp
Diagnosis and treatment
Before you begin any asthma treatment, your doctor may conduct a breathing test to measure your lung function. This kind of tests can also be done regularly to measure the effectiveness of the drug you are using. According to the Mayo Clinic, these diagnostic tools are most effective in patients aged 6 years and over. Your doctor can also do an allergy test if he suspects that your cough is a symptom of allergic asthma.
Controlling drugs are the most commonly used treatment for asthma. Inhaled corticosteroids help reduce inflammation of the lungs, one of the causes of asthma cough. It is used in the long term, unlike oral corticosteroids, which are used for short periods during severe conditions when relapse.
Fast-acting inhalers are prescribed to stay within reach if wheezing and cough recur. Most of them belong to the short-acting beta-antagonist class. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, fast-paced inhalers are generally intended to be used once or twice a week. Doctors may also recommend them to use before exercise, or during illness. Call your doctor if you rely on this medicine more often than recommended.
Cough asthma can also be reduced through long-term oral drugs such as leukotriene modifiers. One such drug is called montelukast (Singulair). Work to treat asthma symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis.
Alternative medicine may help cough asthma, but they should be included as complementary care. Never stop taking prescription drugs for homeopathic remedies. Ask your doctor if the following techniques can help cough your asthma:
- acupuncture
- herbs, such as dried ivy and gingko
- hypnosis
- meditation
- yoga breathing (pranayama)
Prevention
In addition to treatment, you can help reduce the incidence of asthma cough with changes in some lifestyle. For example, putting a humidifier in your room can help relieve cough at night. You may also have to limit outdoor activities if the air quality is bad.
You should also avoid irritants and triggers that may aggravate your cough. This may include:
- chemicals and cleaners
- cold air
- dust
- low humidity
- pollen
- pet hair
- viral infection
If your asthma is worse by allergies, you should try to prevent and treat allergen exposure before your asthma symptoms get better.
Asthma itself cannot be cured. However, symptoms can be managed to help you live a more comfortable lifestyle. Treating asthma symptoms like cough is also important in preventing lung damage, especially in children. With good control, your cough can subside so you can move normally once again. Be sure to contact your doctor if your asthma cough does not subside despite treatment.
