What You Need to Know About Asthma
Breathing is something we don’t usually think about—until it becomes hard to do. If you have asthma or think you might, you’re not alone. Asthma is a common condition that affects the lungs and can make it hard to breathe. The good news is that with the right care, asthma can be managed so you can live a full and active life.
In this article, we’ll explain what asthma is, what causes it, how it feels, and what you can do to control it. Whether you’ve had asthma for years or are just learning about it now, you’ll find helpful tips to breathe easier and feel better.
What is asthma?
Asthma is a long-term condition that affects your airways—the tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs. When you have asthma, these airways become swollen and narrow. This makes it harder for air to move in and out of your lungs, especially during an asthma “attack.”
Asthma is different for everyone. Some people have mild symptoms once in a while. Others have more serious flare-ups. Even if you’ve lived without asthma most of your life, it’s possible to develop it later on. In fact, many older adults are diagnosed with asthma for the first time after age 65.
What causes asthma?
Doctors don’t know exactly why some people get asthma and others don’t, but they believe it’s caused by a mix of genes and environment. You’re more likely to have asthma if:
It runs in your family
You have allergies
You’ve been exposed to smoke, dust, or chemicals
You’ve had respiratory infections often
Some things can trigger asthma symptoms or attacks.
These triggers may include:
Cold air
Exercise
Pollen, dust, or pet dander
Cigarette smoke
Strong smells (like perfumes or cleaning sprays)
Respiratory illnesses, like a cold, the flu, or chronic disease like COPD
Knowing your triggers can help you avoid them and prevent flare-ups.
Common Symptoms of Asthma
Asthma symptoms can be mild or severe. You might notice them every day, or only once in a while. Here are the most common signs:
Coughing, especially at night or early in the morning
Wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe)
Shortness of breath
Chest tightness or pressure
These are signs that your airways are swollen and narrowed. If these symptoms get worse quickly, it could mean you're having an asthma attack.
Signs of an Asthma Attack:
A very hard time breathing
Fast breathing or short, shallow breaths
Can’t speak full sentences without pausing for air
Lips or fingertips turning blue or gray
Feeling panicked or very tired
Persistent coughing with respiratory illness
If you or someone you know is having these symptoms, use a quick-relief inhaler and call 911 or go to the emergency room right away. Asthma attacks can be serious, but fast treatment can help.
What are the risks if asthma isn’t treated?
Ignoring asthma can lead to more serious problems. Over time, repeated swelling and irritation can damage your lungs. Without treatment, asthma may lead to:
Frequent lung infections
Severe breathing problems
Trips to the emergency room
Reduced quality of life (less energy, poor sleep, or avoiding activities)
That’s why it’s so important to talk to your doctor if you think you have asthma. With the right plan, most people can manage their symptoms well.
Treatments for Asthma
Asthma can’t be cured, but it can be managed with the right treatment. Treatment usually involves daily medicine and quick-relief medicine, depending on your needs.
Long-Term Control Medicines
These help reduce swelling in your airways and keep symptoms from starting. You take them every day, even when you feel fine.
The most common type is an inhaled corticosteroid, like fluticasone (Flovent), budesonide (Pulmicort), or beclomethasone (Qvar). Other long-term medicines include combination inhalers like fluticasone/salmeterol (Advair) or budesonide/formoterol (Symbicort), which combine steroids with medications that help open the airways.
Quick-Relief (Rescue) Medicines
These are used during an asthma attack or when symptoms suddenly get worse. They work fast to relax the muscles around your airways.
The most common type is albuterol, which is found in inhalers like Ventolin, ProAir, and Proventil. These should always be close by, just in case.
Other Medicines
For more severe asthma, your doctor may recommend additional treatments, such as oral steroids (like prednisone) during a flare-up, or biologic medications (like dupilumab or omalizumab) given by injection. These are usually for people whose asthma isn’t controlled with standard medicines.
Your doctor will help you find the right combination and adjust it as needed. It’s important to take your medicines exactly as prescribed, even when you’re feeling good.
Lifestyle Tips to Help Manage Asthma
In addition to medicine, there are everyday habits that can make living with asthma easier:
Avoid your triggers. Stay away from things like smoke, dust, or cold air that cause your symptoms.
Use your inhaler correctly. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to show you the right way to use your inhaler and whether using a spacer device may be helpful. It makes a big difference.
Keep your home clean. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter, wash bedding often, and avoid scented products.
Get a flu shot every year. A cold or flu can make asthma worse, so it’s good to stay protected.
Stay up-to-date on immunizations that prevent respiratory illnesses. These include vaccines for COVID-19 and pneumonia.
Exercise gently. Regular movement helps your lungs stay strong. Walking, swimming, or yoga are great options. Just talk to your doctor before starting something new.
Track your symptoms. Use a notebook or app to keep a record of your symptoms and medicine use. This helps your doctor adjust your treatment if needed.
You Can Breathe Easier, Even If You Have Asthma
Asthma might sound scary, but with the right care and a few lifestyle changes, it can be managed. The key is knowing your symptoms, taking your medicine as directed, and working closely with your doctor. Many older adults live well with asthma—and you can too.
If you’re having trouble breathing or think you might have asthma, don’t wait. Talk to your doctor. The sooner you start treatment, the better you’ll feel.
Sources:
Centers for Disease Control & Prevention: About Asthma
Mayo Clinic: Asthma
American Lung Association: Learn About Asthma