Cold-Induced Asthma Symptoms

Take Care To Avoid Cold-induced Asthma Symptoms

The problem with cold-induced asthma symptoms is that they can be easily mistaken for other, much less serious problems (like being extremely tired). Because exercise- and cold-induced asthma can, in some cases, result in death, it is very important to correctly name the symptoms. Even if you're not an asthmatic, this knowledge may save the life of one of your friends.

How could it happen?

Cold-induced asthma is caused by narrowing airways irritated by inflowing cold air. The symptoms are following:

1. Difficulty in breathing

Difficulty in breathing is the easiest to notice, but also the easiest to misinterpret of all cold-induced asthma symptoms. In contact with cold air or after exercising, some breathing problems are perfectly natural. But if someone says that he/she feels tightness in the chest, or if you notice irregularity in breathing (exhalation takes twice as long as inhalation) - remember that all these are cold-induced asthma symptoms. It is possible that the attack in already on the way.

2. Bluish color of face and/or lips
The color is caused by the lack of oxygen. The problem is that it is also a natural color of human face in cold weather. Fortunately, this cold-induced asthma symptom is visible only along with other, more straightforward symptoms. The face color usually changes at the same moment an asthmatic starts loosing his/her consciousness.

3. Decreased level of consciousness
Losing consciousness is potentially most dangerous of all cold-induced asthma symptoms, as it prolongs the time between the attack and receiving some help. Keep this in mind when someone has some breathing problems, while doing exercises outdoors and then starts loosing his/her consciousness is one of typical cold-induced asthma symptoms.

4. Severe apprehension
Another important cold-induced asthma symptom is fear. An asthmatic feels he/she can't breathe, and he or she will show fear, even if it is impossible for him or her to speak. This is probably the most important symptom of asthma for non-asthmatics. No terribly tired man can show so much fear. Consider the situation: you notice that your friend on a mountain trip stops suddenly and tries to take a deep breath. You think he or she is probably tired, but you come closer. If you see a glimpse of apprehension in his or her eyes, you can be sure that it's not about being tired: the cold-induced asthma attack in on its way. Symptoms don't lie.

Don't overlook them!

The worst thing you can do is to ignore or misinterpret the cold-induced asthma symptoms. If it is a severe case of asthma, the very life of an asthmatic may rest entirely in your hands. Your reaction may decide about someone's life! This is especially important outdoors or in the wilderness. It isn't only about asking people about their illnesses. It is also about asking where they keep their medications. 
 

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