Asthma is one of the most common health conditions in the country, affecting children and adults alike. In asthma, one faces inflammation in the airways of their lungs, thereby facing difficulty in breathing. It becomes difficult to conduct daily activities during an asthma attack.

Types of asthma
There are different types of asthma. A few of them are mentioned below:

1. Allergic asthma

Allergic asthma is triggered by allergens, such as food, pollen, animal fur, and dust. This type of asthma is usually seasonal.

2. Nonallergic asthma

This type of asthma is caused by factors, such as air pollution, wood burning, perfumes, air fresheners, and more. Nonallergic asthma is known to be more severe than allergic asthma.

3. Occupational asthma

Harmful elements in the workplace trigger this type of asthma. Some common examples include dyes, latex rubber, gases, fumes, and industrial chemicals.

4. Nocturnal asthma

If the asthma occurs or worsens during nighttime, then it is called nocturnal asthma. Many factors contribute to nocturnal asthma, including hormonal changes, preexisting health conditions, environment, and more.

5. Aspirin-induced asthma

The type of asthma that develops upon the consumption of aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) is known as aspirin-induced asthma.

Early warning signs of asthma

Just when an asthma attack is about to occur, it can give out some warning signs. These are called early warning signs of asthma. The early symptoms of asthma can differ from person to person. However, here are some of the common ones:

1. Shortness of breath

Shortness of breath is one of the most common early symptoms of asthma. This happens because of the blockage and irritation that the lungs experience. Similarly, if there is shortness of breath for a long period of time, it could be an early warning sign of an upcoming asthma attack.

2. Wheezing

An asthma attack is often accompanied by wheezing, a whistle-like sound that occurs while breathing. If the wheezing becomes frequent, then you should get it checked at the earliest.

3. Coughing

Coughing is common in an asthma patient. It can cause a lot of discomfort to the patient, as it can be persistent and even painful.

4. Tightness in the chest

When an asthma attack is about to occur, you may feel a certain tightness in your chest. This is an uneasy feeling, and should be reported to a health expert as soon as it is experienced.

5. Fatigue

Fatigue and excessive weakness, even after doing a simple task like coming back from a short, relaxed walk is also an early warning sign of asthma.

6. Cold and cough
Cold and cough could be indicators that an asthma attack is about to occur. Signs include a runny nose, congestion, headache, and a sore throat.

7. Sleeplessness

Sleep disturbances and sleeplessness often accompany asthma. You may face uneasiness and discomfort while putting yourself to sleep at night.

Sometimes, a person suffering from the disease may go without having an attack for a long time. But if you experience any of the above early warning signs, then you should consult a doctor at the earliest, in order to be fully equipped to deal with the condition. If detected and treated on time, it can be managed effectively.