First Aid Guides
Asthma
Triggers, signs and symptoms
What are the signs and symptoms?
Symptoms vary from person to person, the most common signs of mild asthma include:
- Dry, irritating, persistent cough
- Gasping for breath or wheezing
- Unable to speak more than one or two words per breath
- Blue discolouration around the lips
- Tightness in the chest
- Pale and sweaty skin
- A lack of energy
- Severe attacks may feature deep sucking motions, visible distress and exhaustion from trying to breathe
What are the triggers?
Common triggers of asthma may include:
- Exercise/activity
- Respiratory infections
- Inhaled allergens, such as pollen
- Changes in temperature and weather
- Environmental factors
- Emotional factors, such as anxiety, stress or laughter
- Certain medications, e.g. aspirin
- Chemicals and strong smells
- Some foods and food preservatives
