First warning signs

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pljohns

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What are some of your first warning signs that your asthma is about to flair up? Mine seems to be the cough-once that starts, the difficulty breathing and chest tightness aren't far behind.

I'm still trying to recognize those first symptoms and know when to reach for my inhaler and I must admit, I'm not doing such a good job of it. I tend to be full blown before I reach for the inhaler.
Lynn
 
I am still learning myself. In fact, I just called my doctor to see what to do daily. I have had trouble breathing for a week now and was hesitant to use it. I still dont' feel much better, I thought I would. If I find out anything else I will let you know.
 
My doctor is going to give me a daily med for now to help control this asthma. I am starting singulair and something else tomorrow. He knows I hate taking anything and did say I only had mild asthma, but, that if the allergies are a problem, then, the asthma may be too. I told him I just want to feel better. So, I am willing to do what it takes.
 
It really is different for everyone.

For me, it is the start of a cough. I used to wait until I had breathing problems to use my inhaler, but I know better now. I've also found that I start getting a "goopy" eye. It waters, but is thicker than tears. Usually within a day or two I have a full blown asthma flare. I also sometimes get a bit more restless or become more fatigued prior to a flare.

One of my previous posts is a sticky at the top of this board titled Early Warning Signs Everyone Should Know. It might give you some more signs.

Good luck in your journey figuring this out.
 
I have mild asthma. What that means to me and my doctor is that I can manage it with one puff per day of Flovent. I started out on 4 per day (2 AM and 2 PM) and worked back once it was under control. I haven't had an attack in almost 3 years (when we had 2 weeks of 100 degree weather the August of the drought). With me, the first symptom is a slight tigthening in the middle of my chest. Everyone is different and you just have to figure out what yours is. The whole idea of daily meRAB is to keep you from ever having an attack. I think one puff per day is worth it!
 
Thank you. Since mine is a mild asthma, I am having a hard time thinking it should even be a problem. Does mild usually mean you dont' even need an inhaler? The allergy season seems to be starting by me, I think that's what making it tough. My one family meraber thinks its the power of suggestion. I was told I have, so now I can't breathe. I dont' think so though.
 
Well, that is great information. I know it's not that bad, and I dont' think it's in my head. I think I should have had this inhaler or some type of medicine a long time ago. I believe that the allergy season that is starting is a big part of the problem. I feel like I have to explain myself. I guess when someone has never had a breathing issue, it's hard to understand how it feels when you just can't catch your breath. I tend to be a nervous person, but have stayed so calm. I am not overreacting, I just want to feel right. Thanks so much for all your help.
 
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