Early warning signs are changes that happen just before or at the very beginning of an asthma attack. These changes start before the well-known symptoms of asthma and are the earliest signs that your asthma is worsening.
In general, these signs are not severe enough to stop you from going about your daily activities. But by recognizing these signs, you can stop an asthma attack or prevent one from getting worse.
Early warning signs include:
1. Frequent cough, especially at night
2. Reduced peak flow meter readings
3. Losing your breath easily or shortness of breath
4. Feeling very tired or weak when exercising
5. Wheezing or coughing after exercise
6. Feeling tired, easily upset, grouchy or moody
7. Decreases or changes in lung function as measured on a peak flow meter
8. Signs of a cold, or allergies (sneezing, runny nose, cough, nasal congestion, sore throat and headache)
9. Trouble sleeping
The severity of an asthma attack can escalate rapidly, so it's important to treat these symptoms immediately once you recognize them.
