Asthma Questions: What Patients and Families Should Know

Asthma is a common lung condition that affects nearly eight out of 10 people in the United States. It causes symptoms like coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and trouble breathing. Learning more about asthma can help reduce fear and make symptoms easier to manage.

That’s why our North Oaks experts are answering some of your most common asthma questions for Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month. We’re here to help you better understand asthma so you can breathe easier.

In honor of Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, North Oaks experts are tackling some of the most frequently asked asthma questions to help you better understand the condition and breathe easier.

Is asthma genetic?

Asthma can run in families, so genetics do play a role.

If a parent has asthma, their child may be more likely to develop it. However, research shows asthma is not caused by a single gene. It develops from a mix of genetic factors and environmental exposures, like allergies or smoke.

The good news: Even if asthma runs in your family, managing triggers and following treatment can help control it.

Can you develop asthma as an adult?

Yes. Asthma can begin at any age.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NIH), some people first develop asthma symptoms in adulthood. Possible asthma triggers include:

• Allergies
• Respiratory infections
• Workplace irritants like dust or chemicals
• Air pollution or smoke

What you can do: New breathing problems should not be ignored. Adults can develop asthma and benefit from treatment.

Is asthma contagious?

No. Asthma is not contagious.
You cannot catch asthma from another person. It’s a chronic condition, not an infection.

However, illnesses like colds or the flu can trigger asthma symptoms, and those infections can spread.

Why this matters: It is safe to be around someone with asthma.

How long do asthma attacks last?

Asthma attacks can last from just a few minutes to days, depending on how severe they are.

• Mild attacks may improve quickly with medication.
• Severe attacks can last for hours or even days.

Key takeaway: Early treatment can shorten attacks and prevent them from getting worse.

Can you die from asthma?

Yes, but it is rare and often preventable.

Asthma attacks can become life-threatening if your airways become very tight and swollen, making it hard to breathe. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that asthma-related deaths are uncommon, especially among younger people.

Many asthma deaths can be prevented by:

• Using medications correctly
• Recognizing warning signs early
• Getting medical care quickly

The good news: With proper treatment and a care plan, most people with asthma live healthy, active lives.

How do you test for asthma?

Healthcare providers diagnose asthma using a person’s current symptoms, medical history, and breathing test results, including:

• Spirometry test
  This common lung function test measures how much air you can breathe out and how quickly.
• Bronchodilator test
  This test checks whether your breathing improves after using asthma medicine
• Your healthcare provider might order other tests, such as an allergy test, if they believe it is necessary.

Why this matters: These tests are simple and help your provider create the best treatment plan for your specific symptoms.

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Have more asthma questions?

See a North Oaks pulmonologist! Schedule your appointment with North Oaks Pulmonology Clinic at (985) 230-2778.

Learn more about pulmonology at North Oaks here.

Don’t have a North Oaks provider? Find one here.