Asthma is a chronic lung condition that affects both children and adults. It usually runs in families, along with allergies and eczema. Asthma causes breathing symptoms, like shortness of breath, wheezing (noisy breathing), chest tightness, and cough. Symptoms can come and go. Asthma can be triggered by irritants in the environment (pollen, smoke, pet dander), chest infections, exercise, and even cold air.
To get a diagnosis of asthma, you’ll need to be seen and examined by your primary care provider. You may also need breathing tests, a lung X-ray, and allergy tests. This quiz can help you decide whether to schedule an appointment to be examined for asthma.
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Written by:
Sophie Vergnaud, MDSophie Vergnaud, MD, is the Senior Medical Director for GoodRx Health. A pulmonologist and hospitalist, she practiced and taught clinical medicine at hospitals in London for a decade before entering a career in health education and technology.
Reviewed by:
Karla Robinson, MDKarla Robinson, MD, is a medical editor for GoodRx. She is a licensed, board-certified family physician with almost 20 years of experience in health through varied clinical, administrative, and educational roles.
