An asthma cough is a common symptom of inflamed and narrowed airways. When these airways become sensitive to triggers, the body responds by coughing. This cough indicates asthma, a chronic condition where breathing tubes can swell and produce extra mucus, making breathing difficult. Recognizing the sound of an asthma cough can help individuals identify this symptom.
Characteristics of an Asthma Cough
An asthma cough often presents as a dry cough, meaning it does not produce mucus or phlegm. This cough occurs when airways constrict in response to irritants. The cough can be persistent and may be accompanied by a high-pitched whistling sound, known as wheezing, as air moves through narrowed airways. Some individuals, however, may have a cough that does produce mucus.
The timing of an asthma cough can also provide clues. It commonly occurs at night or in the early morning, which can disrupt sleep. Physical activity, such as exercise, can also trigger a cough, particularly if the air is cold and dry. Exposure to common asthma triggers like pollen, dust, pet dander, smoke, strong odors, or laughter can also bring on a coughing fit. In some cases, a chronic cough may be the sole symptom of asthma, a condition referred to as cough-variant asthma.
Differentiating from Other Coughs
Distinguishing an asthma cough from other types of coughs involves paying attention to specific characteristics. Unlike the wet, productive cough often associated with a common cold, which typically brings up yellow or green mucus, an asthma cough is frequently dry. Bronchitis, another condition causing cough and shortness of breath, often presents with a deep, rattling cough that produces white, green, or yellow mucus, and may include a chill, headache, and general malaise.
Coughs due to allergies might share some similarities with asthma coughs, as asthma itself can be triggered by allergens. However, allergy coughs are often accompanied by other symptoms like a runny nose with clear mucus, itchy throat, or watery eyes, and may persist for weeks or months. Whooping cough, or pertussis, has a distinct “whooping” sound when inhaling after a coughing spell, setting it apart from an asthma cough. Croup, typically seen in younger children, causes a harsh, barking cough due to upper airway swelling, rather than the lower airway inflammation characteristic of asthma.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek medical attention if a cough is persistent or if asthma symptoms worsen. If you experience frequent coughing or wheezing that lasts more than a few days, or if other signs of asthma are present, consult a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and management of asthma can help prevent long-term lung damage and control the condition.
Immediate medical attention is necessary for severe asthma attacks, which can be life-threatening. Warning signs include:
- Rapid worsening of shortness of breath or wheezing
- No improvement after using a quick-relief inhaler
- Difficulty breathing during minimal physical activity
- Bluish lips or fingernails
- Flaring nostrils
- Rapid breathing (more than 30 breaths per minute)
- Difficulty talking
- A persistent, uncontrollable cough
These also indicate a medical emergency.