My child has frequent chest colds with coughing. Could it be asthma?

Talk to your child’s doctor about the colds and coughing. Some children who have lots of colds with coughing, especially at night, do have asthma and should be treated for it.

Will my child outgrow asthma?

Children often don’t outgrow asthma. A child’s asthma can get better or worse over time and some babies and young children with asthma may get much better as they (and their lungs) grow. But for most people, asthma is present the rest of their lives. Children with allergies or a family history of asthma are more likely to continue having asthma as they get older.

Do older adults get asthma?

Yes. Even though more young people get asthma, it also affects older adults. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI), asthma in seniors can be harder to diagnose and treat. Some asthma symptoms are similar to other conditions such as heart disease and emphysema. In addition, older adults often take medications, such as beta-blockers, that can trigger asthma attacks in people with asthma.

Is my coughing or wheezing asthma?

While coughing and wheezing are two common symptoms of asthma, they don’t necessarily mean that you have asthma. Sometimes, a cough may be due to nose allergies or acid reflux. People also experience short-term coughing or wheezing with a cold, pneumonia, bronchitis or bronchiolitis.

Only a doctor can diagnose asthma. If you have a persistent cough or are concerned you may have asthma, make an appointment with your doctor for a health history and diagnostic testing.

Is asthma contagious?

No, asthma is not a contagious disease. No one can catch it from you.

What are the most common causes of asthma attacks?

Allergies to things like dust mites or pet dander, infections such as colds or flu, and irritants like smoke or breathing cold air may cause asthma symptoms. Many people have asthma after exercise if they have been running or playing hard. Things that bother one person’s airways may not bother another person.

Do emotions cause asthma?

No. Asthma is caused by inflammation and constriction in the lungs. It’s stressful to have an asthma attack, but emotions do not cause asthma.

If I have asthma, do I have to give up sports?

No. Physical activity, and the conditioning that comes with it, should be part of everyone’s life, including those with asthma. Asthma should not interfere with physical activity. Even some famous athletes, including David Beckham and Jackie Joyner-Kersee, have asthma.

However, you should plan ahead for exercise by warming up slowly and taking medication as directed. Avoid exercising outdoors when the pollen count or ozone level is high.

Will allergy shots help my asthma?

You’ll need to have allergy tests first. Allergy shots can help with certain allergies like pollen and grasses. You should also find out what you can do to avoid the things that cause your allergies.

Are asthma medicines addictive?

No, the medicines used for asthma are not addictive. Be sure to take your medicines as directed and let your healthcare provider know if you’re having trouble taking your medicines.

Should I try to “tough it out” before taking asthma medication?

The lungs do not get stronger or better able to deal with asthma if you try to work through an attack without medication. In fact, the lung inflammation that goes along with an attack can cause permanent damage to the lungs. Always use medication according to the Asthma Action Plan. If you have questions, talk with your healthcare provider.

Do asthma medicines become less effective if they are taken for a long time?

No, your asthma medicine won’t become less effective over time. Your doctor may adjust or change your medicines if your asthma symptoms change over time.

Are asthma medicines the same steroids used illegally by athletes to improve performance?

No. Illegal steroid use involves anabolic steroids. Some asthma medicines, called corticosteroids, are safe, legal medications used to help prevent asthma. Corticosteroids come in pill, liquid and spray forms. The spray form, in particular, has a low risk of side effects. These medications are an important part of an Asthma Action Plan.

Do the steroids used for asthma stunt growth?

No. Large medical studies have shown that children using inhaled corticosteroids will eventually reach their normal height, although there may be very small, temporary delays in growth initially. In contrast, untreated asthma and the resulting permanent damage to the lungs can significantly affect normal growth. Be sure you work with your child’s healthcare provider and the Asthma Action Plan to treat asthma in the best possible way.

What is a peak flow meter?

A peak flow meter is a device you can easily use at home to check how open your airways are. It can help you keep track of how well your asthma is controlled. You use it by taking a deep breath and blowing hard into a plastic piece that goes into your mouth. Then you write down the resulting number that appears on the meter. Peak flow meters are most helpful for people with moderate or severe asthma. Your doctor may ask you to use a peak flow meter regularly and keep track of the numbers.