How To Know If You Have Undiagnosed Asthma

Asthma is a common chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide, often beginning in childhood but sometimes appearing later in life. If you’ve been experiencing unexplained symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, or wheezing, you may wonder if asthma could be the underlying cause. While these symptoms are common in people with asthma, the condition is frequently undiagnosed, especially in adults. This blog from AIM Group in New York will guide you through the signs that might indicate undiagnosed asthma and how to take the next steps to seek diagnosis and treatment.

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a condition that affects the airways, causing them to become inflamed and narrowed, which makes breathing difficult. It can cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. These symptoms can vary in intensity and may come and go, making it sometimes difficult to identify asthma. In addition, environmental factors like allergens, cold air, exercise, and respiratory infections can trigger asthma symptoms, complicating the diagnosis.

Common Symptoms of Asthma

Asthma symptoms can manifest in different ways, and their intensity can fluctuate. Understanding the common signs will help you identify whether you might be dealing with asthma:

1. Frequent Coughing: A persistent cough that worsens at night or after physical activity could be a sign of asthma. If you notice that coughing is more pronounced when you’re exposed to triggers like cold air, smoke, or allergens, it may be linked to asthma.
   
2. Wheezing: Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound when breathing, particularly when exhaling. This is a key symptom of asthma. It occurs when the narrowed airways make it difficult for air to pass through.
   
3. Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, especially after physical activity or at night, can be a sign of asthma. If you feel like you’re unable to catch your breath, or if it feels like you’re breathing through a narrow straw, asthma might be the culprit.
   
4. Chest Tightness: A feeling of tightness or pressure in the chest, especially during or after physical exertion or at night, could signal asthma. It may feel as if there is a weight pressing on your chest, making it harder to breathe.
   
5. Nighttime Symptoms: Asthma symptoms often worsen at night, leading to disrupted sleep due to coughing or difficulty breathing. If you frequently wake up in the middle of the night with these issues, it could indicate asthma.
   

Less Common but Tell-Tale Signs

While the symptoms listed above are the most common, some individuals may experience asthma in other ways, making it harder to identify without medical assistance:

1. Frequent Respiratory Infections: If you notice that you are frequently getting colds, bronchitis, or other respiratory infections that seem to take longer to heal, asthma could be contributing to your respiratory issues.
   
2. Fatigue: Asthma symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, and disturbed sleep can lead to excessive tiredness during the day. You might not immediately connect this fatigue with asthma, especially if your asthma is mild, but it can still be an important sign.
   
3. Allergy-Like Symptoms: Many people with asthma also have allergies, and symptoms like itchy eyes, runny nose, or sneezing might coincide with asthma symptoms. If you notice that you’re frequently affected by allergies and respiratory issues, asthma may be at play.
   
4. Exercise-Induced Symptoms: If you notice that you struggle to breathe during or after exercise, it may be a sign of exercise-induced asthma, a type of asthma that is triggered by physical activity. Symptoms typically include wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
   

Risk Factors for Asthma

Certain factors increase your risk of developing asthma. If any of the following apply to you, it might be worth considering the possibility of undiagnosed asthma:

1. Family History: Asthma tends to run in families. If one or both of your parents have asthma or allergies, you are more likely to develop it yourself.
   
2. Allergies: If you suffer from hay fever, eczema, or other allergic conditions, you are at a higher risk of asthma. The inflammation from allergies can contribute to the development of asthma.
   
3. Exposure to Environmental Triggers: People who are exposed to certain environmental factors, such as tobacco smoke, air pollution, or chemicals at work, may be more prone to developing asthma. Living in urban areas with poor air quality can also increase your risk.
   
4. Respiratory Infections: Having frequent respiratory infections, particularly in childhood, can increase the risk of asthma. These infections may lead to long-term inflammation in the airways.
   
5. Obesity: Studies have shown that individuals with obesity are at a higher risk of developing asthma, likely due to inflammation and other factors that affect the respiratory system.
   

How to Get Diagnosed

If you recognize any of the symptoms of asthma in yourself, it’s important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. A healthcare provider will conduct a thorough medical history, a physical examination, and may recommend the following tests:

1. Spirometry: This is a lung function test that measures how much air you can breathe in and out, and how quickly you can exhale. It’s a key test for diagnosing asthma.
   
2. Peak Flow Measurement: This test measures the maximum speed at which you can exhale, which can help assess how well your lungs are functioning and if they are obstructed.
   
3. Methacholine Challenge Test: In this test, you inhale a substance called methacholine, which can trigger asthma-like symptoms. The results help determine how sensitive your airways are to asthma triggers.
   
4. Exhaled Nitric Oxide Test: This test measures the amount of nitric oxide in your breath, which can be elevated in individuals with asthma due to inflammation in the airways.
   

Taking Action

If you suspect that you have undiagnosed asthma, the first step is to see a healthcare professional. They will be able to assess your symptoms, perform the necessary tests, and provide you with a treatment plan that may include inhalers, lifestyle changes, or medications to help manage the condition.

Living with asthma is possible with proper management. Identifying it early and getting treatment can significantly improve your quality of life, allowing you to breathe easier and live more comfortably.

Asthma can often go undiagnosed for years, but recognizing the signs and seeking medical advice early can make all the difference. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned in this blog, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare provider. With the right diagnosis and care, you can manage asthma effectively and breathe easier for years to come.

AIM Group Offers Primary Care & House Calls In East Hills, NY

At Advanced Internal Medical Group in East Hills, NY we have 40 years of experience providing care with over 20 services in primary care, house call appointments, and more. To learn more about any of our services, call 516-352-8100 to speak with one of our team members.