Asthma:
Common Symptoms

Intro	Treatment
Common Symptoms	When to Get Help
Causes and Triggers	Asthma Action Plan
Dealing with Triggers	Living with Asthma
Exercise Induced Asthma	Resources
Getting Diagnosed

What are of the most common symptoms of asthma?

• Coughing, especially during the night that can cause you to wake up, or early in the morning
• Wheezing that can often be heard when you breathe
• Shortness of breath or trouble catching your breath
• Chest tightness or pain which may feel like someone is sitting on your chest or squeezing it
• Coughing or having trouble breathing when outside in cold air or while exercising

If you have any of these symptoms, talk to your health care provider!

Asthma symptoms can range from mild to severe - from being a little annoying to seriously affecting how you are feeling. When symptoms are severe, asthma can be life threatening.

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Written by the CYWH Staff at Children's Hospital Boston

Updated: 9/4/2009