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Asthma: Causes, Warning Signs & When to See a Pulmonologist

Asthma causes recurring cough, wheeze, chest tightness and breathlessness. It is a very common and highly manageable condition — with the right treatment, most people live fully active lives.

Medically reviewed by Dr Kuntilraj Borgohain, PulmonologyLast reviewed:

Asthma at a Glance

Most common causes

  • Allergens (dust, pollen)
  • Smoke and pollution
  • Colds and infections
  • Cold air
  • Exercise

When to seek medical attention

  • Breathlessness at rest
  • Wheeze that doesn't ease
  • Bluish lips (urgent)
  • Needing reliever inhaler very often
  • Symptoms disturbing sleep

Specialist: Dr Kuntilraj Borgohain · Pulmonology

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a long-term condition in which the airways are sensitive and tend to narrow when exposed to triggers, causing cough, wheezing, chest tightness and breathlessness. Symptoms often vary — worse at night, with colds, exercise, dust or smoke. Asthma cannot always be "cured," but it is one of the most controllable conditions: with the right diagnosis, the correct inhaler, good technique and trigger management, the large majority of people with asthma keep their symptoms well under control and stay fully active.

Common Causes

Allergens

  • • Wheeze and cough with dust, pollen or pets

Smoke & Pollution

  • • Symptoms worse with smoke, dust and poor air

Colds & Infections

  • • Flare-ups with respiratory infections

Exercise & Cold Air

  • • Cough or breathlessness with activity or in cold weather

Think you might have asthma? Get assessed by our pulmonologist.

Symptoms That Should Not Be Ignored

  • Breathlessness at rest or difficulty speaking
  • Wheezing that does not ease with your reliever
  • Bluish lips or fingertips (emergency)
  • Needing your reliever inhaler very frequently
  • Symptoms regularly disturbing sleep
  • A flare-up that is worse or longer than usual

How Doctors Evaluate Asthma

Your consultation may include: a history of symptoms and triggers, chest examination, lung function testing (spirometry), allergy assessment when relevant, and a personalised asthma plan. Accurate diagnosis and the right inhaler technique are the foundation of good control.

Available Care at Healthwrx

Asthma diagnosis and control
Wheezing and chronic cough
Allergy-related asthma
Inhaler selection and technique
Asthma action plans
Ongoing review and flare-up prevention

Meet the Specialist

Dr Kuntilraj Borgohain, Pulmonology specialist at Healthwrx Guwahati

Dr Kuntilraj Borgohain

Pulmonology

MBBS, MD (Respiratory and Sleep Medicine) · 9+ years

Specialist in pulmonology with comprehensive care approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Asthma Care in Guwahati

Patients from Beltola, Hengrabari, Six Mile, Khanapara, GS Road, Zoo Road, Ganeshguri and Ulubari can consult our Pulmonology specialist at Healthwrx. Expert, ongoing respiratory care close to home.

Related Pages

Concerned about asthma?

Book an appointment with our pulmonology specialist today.

Common Questions

When is an asthma flare an emergency?

Breathlessness at rest, a reliever inhaler not working, difficulty speaking, or bluish lips need urgent medical care.

Which doctor treats asthma?

A pulmonologist (lung specialist) diagnoses and manages asthma.

Can asthma be controlled long term?

Yes. With the right inhaler, technique and trigger control, most people keep asthma very well controlled.

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