Recognizing Adult-Onset Asthma

Here at Covenant Allergy and Asthma, we understand the many differences between treating children and adults, and we are proud to treat it all. However, many people do not even know that there is such a thing as adult-onset asthma. Its symptoms first appear in adults above age 20. Here’s what else you should know.

Asthma is a lung disorder that causes swelling of the airways and increased mucus production. Airways may also grow quite narrow due to muscle contractions.

Adult-onset asthma may be related to allergies, and around half of adults with asthma also have allergies. However, some cases of adult-onset asthma are called occupational asthma, because the symptoms come on suddenly and seem to be the result of substances in the workplace or home environment.

The common symptoms of asthma include:

• Shortness of breath
  
• Frequent coughing, particularly at night
  
• Wheezing when breathing or difficulty breathing
  

Some people are at a greater risk for adult-onset asthma:

• Women undergoing hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or menopause
  
• Women who take estrogen due to menopause for more than 10 years
  
• People who have recently been sick with a cold or flu
• People who are obese
• People who already have allergies–especially cat allergies
• People who are routinely exposed to environmental irritants, like tobacco smoke, mold, dust, feather beds, or even perfume
  

Because adults tend to have lowered lung capacity as they cross into their middle-age years, it’s not uncommon for doctors to miss the diagnosis of adult-onset asthma. Make an appointment at Covenant Allergy and Asthma today to get to the bottom of your symptoms.