Asthma Cough: Identification and Symptoms

Understanding Asthma Cough

A chronic dry cough is a significant symptom of asthma. While many might initially associate asthma with symptoms like wheezing or gasping for breath, an ongoing or chronic cough also plays a crucial role in identifying asthma. Chronic coughs, defined by the American Academy of Family Physicians, persist for at least 8 weeks or longer. This consistent coughing is often a telltale symptom of asthma.

Types of Cough

Understanding the body’s coughing mechanism can provide a more in-depth insight into asthma. Coughing is a bodily reflex designed to expel foreign particles and bacteria, thereby preventing potential infections. This reflex becomes particularly useful for individuals with asthma as it serves as a natural defense mechanism.

Primarily, coughs fall under two categories: productive and nonproductive.

• A productive cough expels a noticeable amount of phlegm, allowing the lungs to clear out harmful substances. An asthmatic cough can be productive, expelling phlegm and mucus from the lungs.
• In contrast, most cases of asthma-related coughs are classified as nonproductive or dry coughs. These occur in response to an irritant triggering spasms or constriction in the bronchial tubes.

Swelling (inflammation) and constriction of the airways — leading to nonproductive coughs — characterizes asthma. Asthma-related coughs often coincide with wheezing, identifiable by a high-pitched whistling sound caused by the constricted airway.

Identifying Symptoms of Asthma Cough

Recognizing a cough as a symptom of asthma can be tricky, primarily because a cough is sometimes the only noticeable symptom of the condition. It’s essential to assess any other related symptoms accompanying your cough.

Here’s a list of potential asthma symptoms:

• Chest tightness
• Wheezing
• Fatigue or waking up due to nighttime coughing
• Problems with exercising
• Prolonged illnesses and infections
• Shortness of breath

The cough associated with asthma can be particularly disruptive, especially during the night, making restful sleep challenging and potentially necessitating special treatment. Night coughs are often related to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), asthma, and other respiratory issues like emphysema.

Recognizing Non-Asthma Symptoms

While identifying symptoms associated with an asthma cough is vital, it’s equally essential to understand symptoms not associated with an asthma cough. If any of the following symptoms accompany your cough, seek emergency medical attention:

• Unusual chest pain or pressure, different from the regular chest tightness linked to asthma
• Coughing up blood
• High or persistent fever
• Loss of appetite
• Night sweats
• Difficulty speaking due to breathing problems
• Changes in skin color due to difficulty breathing
• Weakness
• Unintentional weight loss
• Increasing difficulty walking shorter distances

Diagnosing Asthma Cough

Before initiating any treatments for an asthma cough, a healthcare provider will likely perform a physical exam and may also order breathing tests to measure your lung function. You may need to undergo these tests periodically to assess the efficacy of your medications.

These diagnostic tools are most effective in individuals aged 5 and older. If allergens are suspected to be triggering your asthma cough, your doctor might perform allergy testing. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe a steroid inhaler and monitor your response to the medication as a part of the diagnosis process.

Treating Asthma Cough

Traditional Treatments

Various treatment options are available for asthma and its associated cough:

• Controller Medications: These are commonly used for treating asthma. Inhaled corticosteroids help decrease lung inflammation, a cause of asthma cough. Unlike oral corticosteroids used for short periods during severe flare-ups, these are used long-term.

• Quick-Relief Inhalers: These are prescribed for immediate use during wheezing and coughing flare-ups, most of which fall into the category of short-acting beta-antagonists. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, quick-relief inhalers should not replace controller medications and should be used less than twice a week. They may also be recommended for use before exercise or during illness. Consult your doctor if you find yourself relying on your quick-relief inhaler more than recommended.

• Long-Term Oral Medications: Drugs such as leukotriene modifiers (e.g., montelukast or Singulair) may relieve asthma cough. These medications work by addressing asthma symptoms related to allergic rhinitis.

Alternative Treatments

Alternative treatments can complement traditional treatments for an asthmatic cough, but they should never replace prescription medications, especially in a medical emergency. Consult your healthcare provider if you wish to try any of the following options:

• Acupuncture
• Herbal remedies, such as dried ivy and gingko
• Hypnosis
• Meditation
• Yoga breathing exercises (pranayama)

Preventing Asthma Cough

Beyond treatment, you can implement certain lifestyle changes to help reduce the frequency of your asthma cough.

• Using a Humidifier: Having a humidifier in your room may alleviate night-time coughing.

• Monitoring Air Quality: You may need to limit outdoor activities if the air quality is poor.

• Identifying and Avoiding Asthma Triggers: Understanding what triggers your asthma and avoiding those irritants is a crucial aspect of asthma management. Common triggers include:

  • Cigarette smoke
  • Chemicals and cleaners
  • Cold air
  • Weather changes
  • Dust
  • Low humidity
  • Mold
  • Pollen
  • Pet dander
  • Viral infections

If allergies exacerbate your asthma, you may need to prevent and treat allergen exposure to improve your asthma symptoms.

Outlook for Asthma Patients

Although asthma itself is not curable, it’s possible to manage your symptoms and achieve relief. It’s crucial to treat asthma symptoms like coughing to prevent potential lung damage, particularly in children.

With the right management strategies, your cough should gradually ease. However, if your asthma cough persists despite treatment, it’s important to consult a doctor.

Discover more about the best natural cough remedies in our upcoming sections.