It is commonly said that asthma is a lifelong condition – and in many cases it indeed is. But the fact is that there is such a thing as adult onset asthma. This is a condition that only surfaces in adults and can have a variety of different causes. Particularly in the case of middle aged women, there is a very specific cause. And that’s not all – there are also the symptoms that help you to detect it, the types and the treatment. And today we’ll be taking a look at all the aspects of this condition…

What causes adult onset asthma in middle aged women?

As women hit middle age, they also step into menopause. This means that the hormones estrogen and progesterone start to dwindle and fluctuate. And hormonal imbalance is one major cause of adult onset asthma. Chances are that most middle aged women who suddenly find themselves with asthma-like-symptoms are of course experiencing this very condition.

And that brings up the next question…

What are the symptoms of adult onset asthma?

The mechanism of the condition is the same whether the condition is one acquired in childhood or in adulthood. The lungs develop a disorder whereby they sometimes swell up and get inflamed. In this condition, the airways get constricted and there is a feeling of suffocation. In addition, the inflammation gives rise to excessive mucus production. In severe cases, there may even be contractions felt in the airways.

But as for symptoms to look forward to, here is a handy list:

Coughing frequently – this usually tends to happen most at night
Difficulty in breathing, and a feeling of suffocation
Shortness of breath, felt without cause or exertion
Tightness in the chest region
Wheezing when you breathe – wheezing refers to a whistling sound with each breath

And now that you have seen the basic symptoms, let’s just check out…

What are the different types of adult onset asthma?

Depending on the severity of the condition and frequency of attacks, they are classified into 4 types:

Mild Intermittent Asthma	Mild Persistent Asthma	Moderate Persistent Asthma	Severe Persistent Asthma
Daytime symptoms < 3 times a week Night time < 2 times a month Lung function test > 80% Medication – not needed	Daytime symptoms: 3-6 times a week Night time: 3-4 times a month Lung function test > 80% Medication –needed	Daytime symptoms: Occurs daily Night time > 5 times a month Lung function test: 60-80% Medication –needed	Daytime symptoms: continuously Night time: very frequent Lung function test < 60% Medication –needed

And finally, let’s take a quick look at…

How adult onset asthma is usually treated?

Asthma cannot be cured, unfortunately. The only option is to control the condition. And by control is meant the ability to meet a few requirements on a prevailing basis. These are the requirements:

The ability to lead a normal, albeit active, life free of frequent symptoms.
Be able to continue with work or other pursuits normally.
Have no problem in performing everyday chores and tasks.
No emergencies where you are rushed to the doctor, ER or hospital.
A proper maintenance of the medicines.

As for medicines, anti inflammatory medication and bronchodilators – that help to relax the airway muscles are the usual options. As for the detailed action plan, and the dosage of medicines, you should ideally consult your doctor.

So – if you suspect that you have developed adult onset asthma at this age – this guide should help you to get an idea – book an appointment with your doctor. Asthma is not to be taken lightly, and medical attention is what you need!