Overview
Controller medicines calm swelling; rescue inhalers open airways fast.
Using a rescue inhaler more than 2 days a week means asthma isn't controlled.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Cough, worse at night
- Cough or wheeze at night, with exercise, or in cold air
Less common
- Chest tightness
When to get medical care
Causes
Genes, allergies, and airway swelling.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
- It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.
Who is more likely to get it
- Allergies
- Family history
- Smoke exposure
Possible complications
Diagnosis
A clinician asks about symptoms and tests breathing.
Questions you may be asked
- Night cough, triggers
The exam
Listening to the lungs.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- Spirometry: Breathing test.
- Peak flow: Home check.
Treatment
Follow your action plan.
Self-care
- Know and avoid triggers
- Use your inhaler with a spacer
- Get a flu shot
- Don't smoke or vape
Medicines
Medicines that may help:
| Medicine | Helps with | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Rescue inhaler | Fast relief | Carry it always. |
| Controller inhalers | Daily control | Rinse mouth after. |
OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.
Prevention
To prevent attacks:
- Take controller medicine daily
- Avoid smoke
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
- They may send you to an allergist (allergy and asthma doctor).
Living with it
- Follow a written asthma action plan.
- Keep your rescue inhaler with you.
- Avoid smoke and know your triggers.
- Get a flu shot every year.
- Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.
Support groups and helplines
- Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: Education and online support for asthma, allergies, and eczema.
Back to school, work, or sports
- Most people can keep working or going to school.
- Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
- This condition needs closer checkups during pregnancy. Plan ahead with your doctor.
- Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
- Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
- Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.
For caregivers
- Go to visits when you can and take notes.
- Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
- Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
- Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.
Outlook
Well controlled for most.
Myths and facts
Myth: People with asthma shouldn't exercise.
Fact: With good control, most people with asthma can be fully active.
Myth: Children always outgrow asthma.
Fact: Symptoms may fade but can come back later.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
What to bring
- Inhalers
- Peak flow log
Questions to ask
- Is my asthma controlled?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.