Symptoms of Cough-Variant Asthma

　　Cough-variant asthma (CVA) commonly occurs in spring and autumn. Patients typically experience severe coughing, particularly at night and in the early morning. Triggers include cold weather, exposure to perfumes, cooking fumes, and other irritant odors, cold air, and physical exercise. Additional symptoms may include throat itching, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, and respiratory distress. So, what are the characteristic symptoms of cough-variant asthma?

　　Symptoms of Cough-Variant Asthma

　　Patients with cough-variant asthma typically present with chronic, non-productive cough. This cough is often triggered by inhalation of cold air or upper respiratory tract infections. On pulmonary auscultation, wheezing sounds are typically absent. Most episodes occur seasonally—predominantly in spring and autumn. Conventional antitussive and expectorant medications, as well as antibiotics, are generally ineffective; however, antihistamines or corticosteroids can alleviate symptoms. The primary clinical manifestation is a persistent dry cough, usually without accompanying wheezing, and pulmonary auscultation reveals no wheezing or other pathological findings.

　　Consequently, CVA is frequently misdiagnosed as bronchitis, and inappropriate use of antibiotics and other medications can seriously impair children’s health and development. Due to the delicate nature of children’s bronchial mucosa and their relatively low resistance to external bacterial infections, they are highly susceptible to inflammation and coughing. Etiology is complex and influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, with upper respiratory tract infections being the most common cause.

　　Spring is a peak season for allergic diseases. Marked fluctuations in temperature—and notably large diurnal temperature variations—contribute to a significant rise in the incidence of cough-variant asthma among children. Parents should therefore assist their children in implementing preventive measures. Appropriate participation in physical exercise can enhance disease resistance and improve immune function. We hope this information proves helpful.