Skip to content
WebMD: Better Information. Better Health.
Other search tools:Symptoms|Doctors|Videos

Asthma Health Center

Asthma 331x156 Promo
Worst Asthma Cities
See the top 10.
Asthma Attack
See the signs.
Worst Allergy Cities
See the top 10.

Asthma Overview

Asthma makes breathing difficult for more than 22 million Americans. Asthma symptoms, which include coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness, are common in an asthma attack. Sometimes asthma is called bronchial asthma. Asthma in children is on the rise, but with proper treatment for symptoms of asthma, kids and adults can live well.

Select a Chapter

Get News Updates | RSS Help

latest headlines

Oral Contraceptives May Help Treat Asthma

Treatment with oral contraceptives may benefit premenopausal women with asthma, even if their asthma symptoms are not strongly linked to their monthly menstrual cycles, early research suggests.

Top Stories

Community & Resources

Blogs

More Blogs
Living With Asthma? Paul Enright, MD, Shares Helpful Treatment Tips

Asthma Symptoms

People with asthma experience symptoms when the airways tighten, inflame, or fill with mucus. Common asthma symptoms include:

  • Coughing, especially at night
  • Wheezing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest tightness, pain, or pressure
Asthma Symptoms
webMD Video

Show or hide information about video: When It’s Not Asthma   When It’s Not Asthma

sneeze

Asthma is the most common reason children get short of breath while exercising, but it's not the only reason.

Watch Video: When It’s Not Asthma (opens in a new window)

Show or hide information about video: Asthma and Ozone   Asthma and Ozone

Show or hide information about video: Sports and Asthma   Sports and Asthma

Show or hide information about video: How to Use a Nebulizer   How to Use a Nebulizer

Show or hide information about video: Fragrance-Free Zone   Fragrance-Free Zone

video library >