Common asthma symptoms
The most common symptoms of asthma are:
- coughing
- wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing)
- breathlessness
- a tight chest.
It’s more likely to be asthma if:
- you have more than one of these symptoms
- your symptoms happen often
- your symptoms are worse at night and early in the morning
- your symptoms happen when you come into contact with a trigger like pollen, cold air or animals.
People with asthma usually get symptoms for short periods of time, rather than always having them.
If you have any of these symptoms
Book an appointment with your GP or nurse as soon as possible. They can do tests to confirm whether you have asthma or something else, like a chest infection or a cold.
If you think your child might have asthma, we have more information on spotting asthma symptoms in children.
Coughing
If you have a cough that keeps coming back, it could be a sign of asthma. It’s more likely to be asthma if you have a cough as well as other asthma symptoms, like wheezing, breathlessness or a tight chest.
Asthma coughs are usually dry, but some people may bring up mucus (phlegm).
Wheezing
Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling noise that comes from your chest when you breathe. It is not the same as other sounds that may come from your chest, such as rattling breathing sounds. It is important to see your GP so that they can listen to your chest with a stethoscope.
Not everyone who has asthma has a wheeze. You may still have asthma if you have other symptoms, even if you have not noticed a whistling sound.
We have more information on wheeze in children.
Breathlessness
Finding it hard to breathe or getting breathless is a common asthma symptom. For some people with asthma, this gets worse when they exercise.
It’s normal to get out of breath when you exercise, but if you notice asthma symptoms when you exercise, make an appointment to see your GP. When asthma is well controlled with medicine, most people can exercise without any problems. We have more information on managing breathlessness and exercise and asthma. We also have advice about keeping active with a lung condition.
Tight chest
A tight chest can be a symptom of asthma. It may feel like a band is tightening around your chest. Or it may feel like a dull ache or a sharp pain in your chest. Children sometimes describe it as a tummy ache.
Chest pain
There are many possible causes for an ache or pain in the chest. Speak to your GP or contact NHS 111 if you are having an ache or pain in your chest.
Explaining your symptoms to your GP
It’s a good idea to keep a diary of your symptoms This can help your GP or nurse work out what's causing them, and whether or not you could have asthma. It may also help you find out your asthma triggers.
If your chest is making unusual noises or you are wheezing, it can be helpful to record them. This can help show your GP or nurse what your symptoms are like when you have them.
If your GP thinks you might have asthma, you will need to have some tests. Find out more about how asthma is diagnosed.
Asthma attack symptoms
An asthma attack is when your symptoms get much worse. It can happen suddenly or build up gradually over a few days.
Find out more about spotting the symptoms of an asthma attack.
Get support
Call our Helpline for support with your condition. Get advice on your medicines, symptoms or travelling with a lung condition, or just call us to say hello.