Wheezing Or Coughing? You Could Be Missing These Early Signs Of Asthma (Image Credits: iStock)
World Asthma Day 2025: Coughing is one of the most common symptoms people experience—whether it’s due to a cold, an allergy, or simply irritation in the throat. But what happens when that cough doesn’t go away? Could it be more than just a passing infection? According to experts, it could be a sign of something much more serious—like asthma.
“A cough is often dismissed as something minor, but if it lingers or follows a pattern, it may be the first sign of asthma,” explains Dr Pratibha Dogra, Senior Consultant - Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine at Marengo Asia Hospital, Gurugram.
The Subtle Symptoms of Asthma
Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways. One of the earliest signs—often overlooked—is a persistent, dry cough. Unlike a regular cough from a cold, asthma-related coughing tends to be more troublesome at night or early in the morning.
“Many people think they’re dealing with a long cold or seasonal allergies,” Dr Dogra explains. “But asthma coughs often come with wheezing—a whistling sound when breathing, especially when exhaling—and can become more intense at night or after physical activity.”
Triggers Are a Clue
One of the telltale signs that your cough might be more than just a cold is its sensitivity to triggers. While a regular cough typically resolves in about a week and isn’t affected by the environment, asthma symptoms flare up in response to specific triggers like dust, smoke, cold air, pet dander, or even laughter and exercise.
“If you notice that your or your child’s coughing increases after exposure to certain allergens or after playing or laughing, it’s time to consider asthma as a possibility,” says Dr Dogra.
Breathlessness and Chest Tightness
Another critical red flag is shortness of breath or a feeling of tightness in the chest. A basic cold-related cough won’t make you feel like you can’t breathe. However, asthma can make you feel like you’re gasping for air—particularly after exertion or during the night.
“Chest tightness, often described as a squeezing sensation, is not something you’d feel with a regular cough,” adds Dr Dogra. “It’s a classic sign of airway inflammation due to asthma.”
How Long Has the Cough Lasted?
Duration matters. If a cough sticks around for more than two to three weeks, especially without producing mucus, it’s no longer just a nuisance—it’s a sign that something deeper may be going on. “Asthma-related coughs are dry and chronic,” says Dr Dogra. “They tend to persist and don’t resolve like a typical viral infection.”
Diagnosis and Next Steps
If you suspect asthma, don’t wait it out. Lung function tests like spirometry can help determine how well your lungs are working. For children, doctors often diagnose asthma based on symptoms and their response to asthma medications.
“Early diagnosis is crucial,” shares Dr Dogra. “Untreated asthma can worsen over time and lead to serious breathing issues.”
While an occasional cough is nothing to worry about, a persistent one—especially if triggered by specific environmental factors or accompanied by shortness of breath—should not be ignored. Recognising these signs early can lead to better symptom control and a healthier life.
“Don’t ignore the clues your body is giving you,” advises Dr Dogra. “Getting assessed early can make all the difference.”
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