Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. Coughing is one of the most common symptoms of asthma, but what does an asthma cough sound like in adults?
Symptoms of Asthma Cough
When an adult with asthma coughs, the sound can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Typically, an asthma cough is dry and hacking, without any phlegm or mucus. It can be persistent and often worse at night or early in the morning. Some people describe an asthma cough as a “barking” or “whistling” sound.
In addition to coughing, adults with asthma may experience other symptoms such as:
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Rapid breathing
- Fatigue
Different Types of Asthma Cough
Not all asthma coughs are the same, and there are different types of coughs that adults with asthma may experience:
Vocal Cord Dysfunction
Vocal cord dysfunction is a condition that can mimic asthma symptoms, including coughing. It occurs when the vocal cords close instead of opening during inhalation, leading to difficulty breathing and coughing. The cough in this case may be harsh and straining.
Cough-Variant Asthma
Cough-variant asthma is a type of asthma where the primary symptom is a persistent cough, without any other typical asthma symptoms such as wheezing or shortness of breath. The cough may be dry and hacking, or it may produce a small amount of clear or white mucus.
Postnasal Drip
Postnasal drip occurs when mucus from the nasal passages drips down to the back of the throat, leading to coughing. This type of cough can be worse at night or early in the morning and may produce phlegm or mucus.
Treatment for Asthma Cough
Treatment for asthma cough depends on the severity of the condition and the individual’s symptoms. The goal of treatment is to control inflammation and improve lung function, which can help reduce coughing and other asthma symptoms.
Asthma medications such as bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids are commonly used to treat asthma cough. Bronchodilators help to open up the airways, while inhaled corticosteroids reduce inflammation in the airways.
In addition to medication, there are other steps that adults with asthma can take to manage their symptoms and reduce coughing, such as:
- Avoiding triggers such as smoke, pollen, and dust
- Using a humidifier to keep the air moist
- Practicing breathing exercises
- Getting regular exercise
- Maintaining a healthy weight
Conclusion
An asthma cough in adults can sound different depending on the severity of the condition and the type of cough. It is typically dry and hacking, without any phlegm or mucus. Treatment for asthma cough involves controlling inflammation and improving lung function with medication and other lifestyle changes. If you have asthma and are experiencing coughing or other symptoms, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
