Asthma is a chronic disease that inflames and narrows the airways to the lungs. This means that people with asthma generally have inflammation that is long lasting and needs continual managing in order to control symptoms. Common symptoms of asthma include:
Coughing
Wheezing
Shortness of breath
Rapid breathing
Chest tightness
There are some asthma symptoms that overlap with symptoms of seasonal allergies as well as with those of other respiratory (lung) illnesses, including the cold, flu and COVID-19. The chart below, which was created by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), can help you figure out if you’re experiencing symptoms of asthma compared with symptoms of allergies or a respiratory illness like COVID-19.
Seasonal allergies and the respiratory illnesses described in this chart may worsen asthma. That’s why, if you have asthma, it’s important to review your symptoms and create an asthma action plan with your doctor. If you’re struggling with your asthma symptoms, particularly while COVID-19 is still spreading and during this peak time of allergy season, talk with your doctor and be sure to discuss any changes needed to your action plan. Additionally, if you have a fever and a cough, call your doctor to discuss the possibility that you have another respiratory illness, especially considering the current risk for COVID-19.
People with asthma are at higher risk of hospitalization for COVID-19. Visit the AAFA website to learn more about the coronavirus and how to protect yourself from COVID-19. In addition, check out our next blog to learn more about ways to control asthma symptoms.
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