Its Just a Little Cough – Why Ignoring Asthma Symptoms Can Be Dangerous

"It’s Just a Little Cough" – Why Ignoring Asthma Symptoms Can Be Dangerous

Sarah, a 32-year-old mother of two, always dismissed her shortness of breath as seasonal allergies. When she wheezed while climbing stairs or coughed at night, she blamed the weather or dust at home. Even when her chest tightened after a jog, she shrugged it off—“just out of shape,” she thought.

One evening, after laughing with her kids at dinner, she suddenly struggled to catch her breath. Her chest tightened like a vice, and every inhale felt like trying to breathe through a straw. Panicked, she reached for water, but nothing helped. It wasn’t until she arrived at the ER—gasping for air—that she realized what she had been ignoring all along: she had asthma.

Understanding Asthma

Asthma is a chronic lung condition that affects millions worldwide. It causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making breathing difficult. While there’s no cure, proper management allows individuals to lead active, healthy lives.

Common Asthma Triggers

Asthma triggers vary from person to person, but common culprits include:

Allergens: Pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold

Air pollutants: Smoke, strong odors, chemicals

Respiratory infections: Colds, flu, sinus infections

Exercise: Physical activity can trigger asthma symptoms

Weather changes: Cold air, humidity

Emotional stress: Anxiety, excitement

Recognizing the Symptoms

• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing (whistling sound while breathing)
• Chest tightness
• Chronic coughing, especially at night or early morning
• Ignoring these symptoms can lead to severe asthma attacks, which may require emergency care.

Managing Asthma Effectively

Controlling asthma involves avoiding triggers, taking medications as prescribed, and making lifestyle adjustments. Here’s how you can take charge:

1. Follow Your Asthma Action Plan

• Work with your doctor to create a personalized plan that includes:
• A daily medication schedule (long-term control vs. quick-relief inhalers)
• Symptom tracking to recognize early warning signs
• Emergency steps to follow during an asthma attack

2. Take Medications as Prescribed

Asthma medications fall into two main categories:

• Long-term control: Reduce airway inflammation (e.g., inhaled corticosteroids, leukotriene modifiers)
• Quick-relief inhalers: Provide immediate relief during flare-ups

3. Reduce Exposure to Triggers

• Use HEPA filters to keep indoor air clean
• Wash bedding regularly to reduce dust mites
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
• Limit outdoor activities during high pollen or pollution levels

4. Stay Active—Safely

• Physical activity is essential, but it should be managed properly:
• Warm up before exercise
• Choose low-impact activities (e.g., swimming, yoga)
• Always carry a rescue inhaler

5. Monitor Your Symptoms

Using a peak flow meter can help track lung function and detect early signs of worsening asthma. 

 
When to Seek Medical Attention

Consult a pulmonologist if you experience:

• Frequent asthma attacks despite medication
• Increased shortness of breath
• Symptoms interfering with daily activities
• With the right management, individuals with asthma can lead full, active lives. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider ensure that treatment remains effective over time.

Let’s Talk!

Share this article with friends and family—awareness saves lives!

Do you have a question or experience to share? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at drasiya@primehealth.ae or myprime@primehealth.ae.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

References

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)

American Lung Association

World Health Organization (WHO)