How Can I Tell Between Being Out of Shape and Winded Versus Shortness of Breath from Asthma?
Deconditioning (being out of shape) and “winded” with physical activity is characterized by general breathlessness (shortness of breath) with exertion. This is different from having shortness of breath with asthma. Clinical features and diagnostic tests can be used to tell the difference between the two.
Asthma-related shortness of breath often includes other symptoms such as:
- Cough
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
People don’t have these symptoms when they are out of shape. People with asthma may have increased shortness of breath during exercise. This is due to overinflation of the lungs. Asthma is characterized by reversible airway obstruction. This means asthma symptoms usually go away with treatment. This is seen during lung function testing (such as spirometry). Being out of shape does not affect the results of lung function testing.
Asthma symptoms are often triggered by:
Also, a family history of allergies and asthma may also be present in asthma. Having shortness of breath with physical activity is usually due to being out of shape if you don’t have a family history of allergies and asthma or a reaction to certain triggers.
Finally, if you wheeze when you breathe during a physical exam, you more than likely have asthma. People who are out of shape usually have a normal lung exam.
Talk with your doctor to confirm if you have asthma and help you create a treatment plan.
John M. James, MD, is a board-certified allergist. He is also President of Food Allergy Consulting and Education Services, LLC. He has worked as a medical specialist in the field of allergy, asthma, and immunology for over 30 years. Dr. James received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas and his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Tennessee. He is board certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology.
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