ASTHMA
Asthma is not just a disease of children. More than half of the people diagnosed with asthma are adults. The risks of developing asthma for the first time is just as great in adults over 65 as it is in just about any other age group except early childhood.    Fortunately, by working with your physician, asthma (reactive airway disease) is usually a very manageable disease at any age. Most people respond well to treatment, allowing them to lead active lives.  

Asthma occurs when airways (bronchial tubes) in the lungs become constricted and inflamed. Constriction occurs as muscles around the tubes tighten. Inflammation causes bronchial tube swelling and further reduces the tube space and excess mucus production blocks your airways. The combination of smooth muscle constriction (bronchospasm), inflammation of the tubes and mucus obstruction all contribute to the blockage of airflow.   Classic signs and symptoms of asthma include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath and chest tightness. However, older adults may not have all these classic signs and symptoms. There may be only one symptom or several, and the signs and symptoms can be mild or severe and can occur most of the time or may come and go. In older adults, coughing is a common sign, and it may be the only sign.

There are many potential triggers for asthma attacks. In adults who develop asthma late in life, most experience their first symptoms in conjunction with or after an upper respiratory viral infection.   Additional triggers of initial or ongoing asthma attacks may include airborne allergens, exercise or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can occur "silently" without causing "heartburn". Other triggers include strong emotions, preservatives called sulfites (found in some red wines) and certain medications, including aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and beta blockers (medicines for the heart or blood pressure).  

If you think you have asthma, call your doctor and discuss it with him. If you have a sudden onset of difficulty breathing call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.  

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