In fact, in about one out of every two sufferers, coughing could very well be the only symptom. A persistent cough over several weeks shouldn't be tolerated and seeking medical opinion is the best course of action. A chronic cough can usually follow cold symptoms or it may be a symptom of some other condition which is why it's difficult to associate it as a symptom of asthma. That's why your doctor is best qualified to diagnose it.

Asthma Or A Cough?

Asthma cough is not suspected by many sufferers initially simply because the symptom could be associated with any number of other conditions. However, persistent and chronic night time cough should not be ignored and you should seek your doctor's opinion straight away.

Not Just A Child's Disease

It's important to realise asthma is not just a disease affecting children. In fact, adults have a better than 10 percent chance of developing asthma symptoms in their lives and that's why it's important to recognize a persistent cough as possibly more than just a by-product of a severe cold or flu.

During an adult's working life, they may be constantly exposed to non allergic triggers such as workplace irritants or even hormonal changes. Isolating the times when a cough is at it's worst is important when discussing your situation with a doctor.

An Asthma Fact

Asthma causes thousands of deaths each year so it's a potential killer. Asthma should be treated as an on-going maintenance project and sufferers need to be on guard 365 days a year. Avoidance of known triggers and consistent use of medication give sufferers every opportunity to lead normal lives.

Asthma Cough Facts

Wheezing is associated with this type of cough and it's described as non productive, meaning it doesn't produce wheezing. It's an irritating experience in the fact it has an almost hollow sound and the irritation in the throat seems unmovable. If the cough goes unchecked, shortness of breathe or even episodes of vomit can occur.

Children

In children, the episodes will be frequent and parents should keep a check on when the coughing is at it's worst. Isolating these times is valuable information for your doctor. It may occur most when the child is at play or during the night. You also want to check the child's breathing and look for rapid breathing. If the cough is breaking up normal sleep habits or it's so pronounced that it wakes the child, then your doctor will need to know.

Breathe Easy

Rescue inhalers, or short term medicines are the most common type of asthma medication. Long term medicications include anti-inflammatory preparations such as Corticosteroids and Leukotrine modifiers.

What is the best course of treatment. This is an area your doctor is best placed to advise you about but usually a combination of both is the best management practice. Inhalers are quick relief and great for diffusing potentially harmful episodes while long term medicines will help prevent and reduce swelling in the airways.