We know this is a difficult time and We want you to know we care for our patient's health and wellbeing.
Skip to main content

Can You Develop Asthma Later in Life?

Can You Develop Asthma Later in Life?

Roughly 25 million Americans are living with asthma, characterized by chronic intermittent lung inflammation. Many cases of asthma are diagnosed for the first time in childhood. Because of this, it’s natural to be alarmed when these symptoms appear for the first time as an adult.

And adult-onset asthma is becoming more common. An allergy and immunology specialist is an excellent resource for evaluating your symptoms and helping you get answers. At Rheumatology and Allergy Institute of Connecticut, our experts routinely diagnose and treat adult-onset asthma. 

Yes, asthma can develop in adulthood

Asthma is commonly perceived as a condition that begins in childhood. In reality, adults are diagnosed with new-onset asthma, too. It’s more frequent in women than in men, and the specific cause of adult asthma is unknown. You’re more likely to develop asthma in adulthood if you:

Women going through menopause are also at a higher risk of developing adult-onset asthma. Unlike children who tend to have no symptoms between flare-ups, adults often experience chronic wheezing and breathing issues.

Identifying adult-onset asthma

Adult asthma is frequently difficult to diagnose because its symptoms resemble those of other illnesses, such as chronic pulmonary obstruction disorder.

Here are some symptoms of asthma to watch out for:

These symptoms might not necessarily indicate asthma, particularly if they’re brief and resolve on their own. Nonetheless, if you’re unsure, our team can help you get to the bottom of things. 

What triggers an asthma attack?

Although triggers can vary from person to person, there are a number of common asthma triggers, including:

If you have asthma, you can help control your symptoms by minimizing these triggers. 

Diagnosing and managing adult-onset asthma

Our team will confirm a diagnosis of adult-onset asthma based on your physical exam, lung function testing, and medical history. We might recommend testing for allergies

Managing adult-onset asthma depends on the severity of your symptoms. Regular use of inhaled steroids to minimize inflammation and/or a long-acting inhaler to keep your airways relaxed is a typical preventive treatment for asthma. 

You can use a relatively inexpensive gadget called a peak flow meter to test and track your ability to expel air from your lungs. If you have asthma, it’s prudent to monitor your lung function daily for changes. 

Without treatment, asthma can negatively impact lung function. Don’t put off having your symptoms evaluated. A good treatment plan can help you get relief from and in control of asthma symptoms. 

For more information about asthma and to schedule a visit with the Rheumatology and Allergy Institute of Connecticut, call our Manchester office and a scheduling coordinator will assist you. You can also make an appointment request online.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Why Is Dairy an Allergen?

You're enjoying a scoop of your favorite ice cream or a slice of cheesy pizza when suddenly, discomfort sets in. Could dairy be the culprit? Understanding why dairy is an allergen opens the door to awareness and better health choices.

How to Manage a Pet Dander Allergy When You Want a Pet

Balancing the love for pets and your struggle with allergies can feel like a tug-of-war. However, navigating a pet dander allergy doesn't mean giving up on the dream of having a furry friend. There are ways to manage your allergy and coexist.

Helping Your Child Live With Eczema

You can empower your little one to flourish despite eczema. Uncover practical tips to help your child conquer this challenging skin condition, fostering a happier and more comfortable daily life.

4 Reasons You Keep Getting Hives

You may be puzzled if you’re suffering from chronic hives, and it’s natural to want answers. Getting an evaluation can help you identify the root cause of your hives and develop a personalized treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms.