What is Adult-Onset Asthma?
Adult-onset asthma refers to the onset of asthma symptoms in individuals, typically after the age of 20, who have not previously experienced asthma during childhood. It is crucial for adults experiencing symptoms to seek medical evaluation and diagnosis, as effective management and treatment options are available to help control and improve their respiratory health.
What Are Symptoms of Adult-Onset Asthma?
Adult-onset asthma symptoms can fluctuate in intensity and frequency. Here are some of the most common symptoms of adult-onset asthma:
Shortness of Breath
A common symptom characterized by difficulty breathing and a feeling of not getting enough air
Wheezing
High-pitched, whistling sounds while breathing, commonly associated with asthma due to narrowed airways
Coughing
Frequent coughing, especially at night or in the early morning, is a classic asthma symptom
Chest Tightness
A sensation of pressure or constriction in the chest often associated with asthma, making breathing uncomfortable
Chest Pain
Discomfort or aching in the chest, which can occur during an asthma attack but may also have other causes
Chest Heaviness
A sense of weight or pressure in the chest, typically linked to asthma symptoms
Chest Squeezing
A gripping or constricting feeling in the chest, often experienced during an asthma attack
Decreased Endurance with Sports
A reduction in physical stamina and athletic performance due to asthma-related limitations
What Causes Asthma in Adults?
It’s important to note that the specific cause of adult-onset asthma can vary from person to person, and it often results from a combination of factors. Some of the most common causes of adult-onset asthma are listed below:
- Environmental allergies
- Exposure to smoke
- Pollution
- Eosinophilic phenotype
- Chronic sinusitis
- Adenoid hypertrophy
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Diagnosing & Treating Asthma In Adults
Medical History & Physical Exam
Diagnostic Testing
Treatment
Testing for Asthma in New Jersey
Adult On-set Asthma Treatment in New Jersey
How to Treat Adult Onset Asthma?
At Impact Medical, treatment recommendations are determined based on severity and cause. Learn more about some of the treatment options available for asthma below.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Onset Asthma
Who gets adult-onset asthma?
Adult-onset asthma is diagnosed in individuals who are generally over the age of 20 and develop onset asthma symptoms in adulthood. This can be due to a variety of reasons including allergies, exposure to smoke, pollution, and more.
How is adult-onset asthma diagnosed?
Adult-onset asthma is diagnosed through pulmonary function tests including spirometry, lung volumes, and DLCO that measure how well the lungs are working.
How do I know if I have adult-onset asthma?
If you’re displaying signs of asthma, including but not limited to, shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing, or wheezing, contact a medical provider at Impact Medical to set up a diagnosis assessment for adult-onset asthma.
