Asthma is a common childhood disease, but that does not mean it cannot occur later in life. When a diagnosis is made after age 20, the condition is known as adult-onset asthma.
Is Asthma in Adults Common?
Around 21 million adults in the U.S. ages 18 and older have asthma. Research suggests asthma is more commonly found in adult women than adult men.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Asthma in Adults
- Breathing difficulties or shortness of breath
- Coughing
- Tightness in the chest or sudden pain
- Wheezing while breathing
- Waking at night due to asthma symptoms
Who Is More Likely to Get Adult-Onset Asthma?
- Women undergoing hormonal fluctuations, such as during pregnancy or the approach of menopause
- Women on estrogen replacement therapy for 10 years or longer
- Anyone recently affected by a virus or illness like a cold or flu
- People with cat allergies
- People with GERD (chronic acid reflux)
- Exposure to environmental irritants, such as tobacco smoke, mold, dust, feather beds, or certain perfumes
Childhood Asthma vs. Adult-Onset Asthma
As adulthood progresses, lung forced expiratory volume (the amount of air that can be forcibly exhaled in one second) tends to decrease. After middle age, the muscles in the chest wall can stiffen, further decreasing lung function — which can cause doctors to miss an adult-onset asthma diagnosis. Adult-onset asthma tends to be more severe than childhood asthma and can more sharply decrease lung function.
Diagnosis of Adult-Onset Asthma
A specialist typically starts by taking a complete medical history focused on symptoms, then performs an external breathing analysis using a stethoscope on the chest wall.
Lung Function Test
A spirometer measures how much air can be exhaled after a deep breath and how quickly the lungs can be emptied. If mucus is clogging the lungs, a short-acting bronchodilator may be given before or after the test to open the airways and clear mucus.
Methacholine Challenge Test
If spirometry results are inconclusive, this test can help determine whether adult-onset asthma is present. Inhaled methacholine causes airway spasms and narrowing in people with asthma; a drop in lung function of at least 20% is considered a positive result. A bronchodilator is given at the end of the test to reverse the effects of the methacholine.
Final Words
A lung doctor can prepare an action plan for managing adult-onset asthma, including medication details and tips for handling sudden attacks.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition.