How is Adult Onset Asthma Diagnosed?
Asthma symptoms can mimic other illnesses or diseases—especially in older adults. Hiatal hernia, stomach problems or rheumatoid arthritis can create asthma-like symptoms. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has many of the same symptoms as asthma. COPD, which includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, is very common in older adults, especially those who are or have been smokers. To diagnose asthma, your physician will question you about your symptoms, do a physical exam, and conduct lung function tests. In addition, you may be tested for allergies. Your primary care physician may refer you to a pulmonologist (lung specialist) or an allergist for specialized testing or treatment. If you have any asthma symptoms, don’t ignore them or try to treat them yourself! Get a definitive diagnosis from your health care provider. How can adult onset asthma be managed? There are four key steps to successfully managing asthma: • Learn about asthma and stay up-to-date on new developments • Ta
