Asthma control in teenagers

Overview

Asthma is a condition where the airways (the tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs) can become narrow and swollen, making it harder to breathe. For teenagers, good asthma control means having few or no symptoms and being able to do all the things you enjoy without being held back by your asthma.

Yes, asthma is very common. It affects millions of people worldwide, including many teenagers.

Asthma can start at any age, but it often begins in childhood. Teenagers with asthma may find their symptoms change during puberty. It also runs in families and is more common in people with allergies.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe out)
• Coughing, especially at night or early morning
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness or pressure

Symptoms in children

• Often the same symptoms, but younger children might have a persistent cough that gets worse with colds or exercise.
• Toddlers may have feeding difficulties or be irritable.

Symptoms in older adults

• Asthma can be new in older adults or may return after many years. Symptoms may be similar, but can be confused with other conditions like heart disease or COPD.

Causes

Main causes

• Inflammation and swelling of the airways in response to triggers.
• The exact cause is not fully understood, but it often involves a mix of genetic and environmental factors.

Risk factors

• Family history of asthma or allergies (like hay fever or eczema)
• Having allergies yourself
• Being overweight
• Smoking or being exposed to second-hand smoke
• Certain viral respiratory infections in early childhood

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have an asthma attack that does not improve after using your rescue inhaler, or if you are struggling to breathe.
• If your symptoms are getting worse quickly.

Book a routine appointment if:

• For regular check-ups at least every 6-12 months even if you feel well.
• If you need to use your rescue inhaler more than 2 times per week (not just before exercise if advised).
• If your asthma is affecting your sleep, school, sports, or social life.

Diagnosis

A doctor or asthma nurse will take your medical history, ask about symptoms, and perform tests to see how your lungs are working.

Tests that may be done

• Spirometry: you breathe into a machine to measure how fast and how much air you can blow out.
• Peak flow meter: you blow into a small handheld device to check your airflow. You may do this at home to monitor your asthma.
• Allergy tests: skin or blood tests to see if you have allergies that can trigger asthma.

What to expect at your appointment

The tests are simple and painless. They help confirm asthma and guide your treatment. You might be asked to stop certain asthma medications before the tests, so follow your doctor's instructions.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on preventing symptoms and managing flare-ups. For teenagers, it's important to have a written asthma action plan that tells you what to do every day and what to do when symptoms get worse.

Self-care at home

• Identify and avoid your asthma triggers (like pollen, dust mites, cold air, or smoke).
• Take your preventer inhaler every day as prescribed, even if you feel fine.
• Use your rescue inhaler exactly as needed for quick relief.
• Check your peak flow regularly and record it.
• Stay active – exercise is good for asthma control. Use your rescue inhaler before exercise if advised by your doctor.
• Don't smoke and avoid second-hand smoke.
• Get enough sleep and manage stress, as these can affect asthma.

Medical treatments

Asthma treatments usually involve inhalers. There are two main types: preventer inhalers (taken daily to reduce airway inflammation) and rescue inhalers (used quickly to relieve symptoms when they occur). Some people may need combination inhalers. Your healthcare provider will prescribe the right type and dose for you. Never share inhalers with others.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used to treat asthma directly. However, some people with severe asthma may benefit from certain procedures like bronchial thermoplasty, but this is rare and only considered after specialist review.

Living with this condition

Most teenagers with asthma can lead a completely normal life. Having a good routine – taking your preventer inhaler daily, knowing your triggers, and keeping your asthma action plan handy – is key. Tell your friends, teachers, and coaches about your asthma and what to do in an emergency.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay active: exercise helps your lungs stay strong. Choose activities you enjoy. Use your inhaler before exercise if recommended.
• Keep your home environment clean and free of dust, mould, and pet dander if you are allergic.
• Wear a scarf over your nose and mouth in cold weather to warm the air.
• Avoid vaping and smoking entirely.

Diet and exercise

A healthy, balanced diet helps your overall health, but no specific diet can cure asthma. Regular exercise, like swimming, walking, or cycling, can improve your lung function and overall well-being. Always warm up and cool down, and have your inhaler nearby.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Asthma can sometimes cause worry or stress, especially if you fear an attack. It's normal to feel this way. Talk to someone you trust – a parent, school nurse, or friend. Managing your asthma well can boost your confidence. If anxiety or low mood persists, seek help from a counsellor or doctor.

Prevention

Asthma itself cannot be prevented, but you can often prevent asthma attacks by following your treatment plan and avoiding triggers. Good control means fewer flare-ups.

Vaccines

Getting the flu vaccine every year is recommended for people with asthma, as flu can trigger severe attacks. Also, stay up to date with other vaccines like the COVID-19 vaccine and whooping cough vaccine if advised.

Screening programmes

Screening is not routine for asthma in the general population. But if you have symptoms or a family history, see your doctor for a check-up.

Complications

If left untreated

• Poor asthma control can lead to frequent symptoms that interfere with sleep, school, and sports.
• Asthma attacks that require emergency hospital visits.
• Long-term damage to the lungs (airway remodeling) if inflammation is not controlled.

Long-term outlook

With good care, most teenagers with asthma can expect to have excellent control and live a full, active life. Asthma is a long-term condition, but it doesn't have to limit you. Many athletes, musicians, and leaders have asthma. The key is to work with your healthcare team and stick to your plan.

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