In allergic asthma, symptoms usually occur after contact with an allergen. The type and severity of symptoms can vary from person to person.
The severity of symptoms can also vary over time. In some people, they may suddenly become worse and cause an asthma attack with severe shortness of breath.
Wheezing and coughing are common in young children. Around one in three children can develop an obstructive bronchitis at least once before their third birthday. Most commonly triggered by a viral infection, the airways narrow causing the child to cough, wheeze or experience difficulty breathing.
Many children experience several such episodes during the pre-school years. In the majority of cases, the symptoms disappear as they get older. Obstructive bronchitis therefore does not automatically mean that a child has asthma. In a small proportion of children, however, repeated symptoms may indicate asthma in early childhood.
Medical assessment is particularly important if the symptoms occur frequently, also arise without a cold, disturb the child at night or restrict their activity. The doctor will decide whether further investigations or treatment is necessary.
Allergic asthma is also frequently associated with allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Typical symptoms include repeated sneezing, a blocked or runny nose and red, irritated and watery eyes.