By: Dr. Dylan Patel
Family Medicine Resident
Colquitt Regional Health System
So, what does asthma look like? The most common symptoms include wheezing, along with coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. These symptoms can come and go, and they’re often worse during certain times of the year. Here in Moultrie, many people notice their asthma flares up during our heavy pollen seasons. Others find their breathing gets worse with exercise, around cigarette smoke, or when they have a cold. In children, asthma often shows up as frequent coughing, especially at night or early in the morning.
Asthma flare-ups, or attacks, occur when the airways become even more swollen and filled with mucus. This can make breathing much more difficult. Signs that an attack is getting serious include fast breathing, struggling to speak in full sentences, the chest or stomach pulling in with each breath, or a child appearing unusually tired or panicked. These are warnings that immediate medical attention may be needed.
Who is at risk? Asthma can affect anyone, but some groups are more likely to experience problems. Premature infants, children with allergies, or those with a family history of asthma are more prone to symptoms. Adults who smoke, or who are regularly around secondhand smoke often find their symptoms worsen. And in our farming community, where pollen, dust, and other irritants are part of daily life, asthma triggers can be hard to avoid.
Even though there’s no cure for asthma, it can be well controlled. Doctors typically prescribe two types of medication: a quick-relief inhaler that helps during an attack, and a daily “controller” medicine that reduces inflammation and prevents flare-ups. Taking these medications exactly as directed is one of the most important steps in keeping asthma under control. When asthma is managed well, people have fewer attacks, fewer doctor visits, and better everyday quality of life.
Lifestyle changes also help. Avoiding cigarette smoke, reducing dust in the home, and paying attention to pollen levels, especially during spring and fall, can lessen symptoms. Knowing what triggers breathing problems and trying to avoid those triggers can go a long way.
Asthma may be common, but it shouldn’t be ignored. If you or your child is showing symptoms, don’t wait to talk with your physician. Early treatment and good management make all the difference and help ensure that breathing easily becomes the norm rather than the exception.
