To fully understand the symptoms of asthma, it is important for you to understand that it's more than simply - difficulty in breathing and coughing.

But these are not really the only symptoms of asthma, because mostly everyone (including those that don't have any asthma related condition) to occasionally have difficulty in breathing and also sometimes experience cough.

Does this mean they have asthma? Not at all.

So, it is not enough to say the symptoms of asthma are mainly difficulty in breathing and coughing.

Agreed, these two could be some of the symptoms but not all the symptoms. A medical doctor can understand the other symptoms including the construction of the bronchial air passages that keep the victim from being able to breath.

Below are the general symptoms of asthma... in order of their occurrence:

. It can start with very severe sneezing and cough,

. Runny nose and itchy throat.

. Shortness of breath that gradually builds up and leads to difficulty in speaking,

. Gasping for breath while talking,

. Tightening of the victim's chest,

. Loud wheezing (raspy or whistling sound when breathing) and a more intensified coughing,

. Flared nostrils of victims and tightening of the neck muscles.

. Bluish lips of the victims and fingernails.

At this display of these last symptoms of asthma, it is a serious indication of danger. Blue lips and fingernails are an indication that the person isn't getting enough oxygen to deliver into the bloodstream.

Whenever you experience any 3 or more of the above symptoms of asthma, then you should know the situation could be dangerous to the victim.

Be vigilant however as many of these same symptoms can be caused by simple allergies. Once again however, it's important to recognize the symptoms and the severity to determine the right course of action. If in doubt, immediately seek medical attention for the person in distress.

Some people are very lucky to notice the early symptoms of asthma before it becomes critical; while some don't even see it coming until it suddenly hits them... and brings them to their knees.

Be on the look out for the above symptoms of asthma... so that you can stay protected all the time and be able to quickly take the necessary medication when it occurs.