Symptoms of asthma in adults
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Summary
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These studies suggest that asthma symptoms in adults include wheezing, cough, and exacerbations often triggered by colds and respiratory viruses, with diagnosis requiring careful history, physical examination, and pulmonary function tests.
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Symptoms of Asthma in Adults
Common Symptoms of Adult Asthma
Asthma in adults is characterized by a range of symptoms that can vary in intensity and frequency. The most common symptoms include wheezing, dyspnea (shortness of breath), cough, and chest tightness . These symptoms are often intermittent and can be triggered by various factors such as cold air, exercise, allergens, and respiratory infections .
Variability and Triggers
Asthma symptoms in adults are known to be variable, often changing with the seasons or in response to specific triggers. Common triggers include animal dander, pollen, certain foods, aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and occupational exposures. Additionally, respiratory viruses are a significant cause of asthma exacerbations, with infections like rhinoviruses and influenza being commonly associated with worsening symptoms.
Comorbidities and Differential Diagnosis
Asthma in adults is frequently associated with other conditions such as rhinitis, sinusitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), obstructive sleep apnea, and depression. These comorbidities can complicate the clinical picture and make diagnosis more challenging. It is also important to differentiate asthma from other conditions with similar presentations, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure, and angina, especially in older adults.
Severe Adult-Onset Asthma
Severe adult-onset asthma is considered a distinct phenotype, often presenting with more persistent and severe symptoms. Patients with this form of asthma are more likely to be nonatopic and exhibit higher levels of airway inflammation, as indicated by increased blood neutrophil and sputum eosinophil counts. These patients also tend to have more nasal symptoms and nasal polyposis.
Impact of Smoking and Aging
The prevalence and severity of asthma symptoms can be influenced by factors such as smoking and aging. Studies have shown that smoking cessation can lead to a decrease in symptoms like wheezing, although other symptoms such as asthma attacks and the use of asthma medication may increase with age. Additionally, older adults may underreport symptoms, and objective measurements of lung function are crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
Conclusion
Asthma in adults presents with a variety of symptoms, including wheezing, dyspnea, cough, and chest tightness, which can be triggered by numerous factors. The presence of comorbidities and the need for differential diagnosis are important considerations in managing adult asthma. Severe adult-onset asthma represents a distinct clinical phenotype with more persistent symptoms and higher levels of airway inflammation. Understanding these aspects is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment.
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