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For most of this century, asthma has largely been thought of as a kids' disease. And, while it's true that more than 6 million kids in the United States alone may have asthma, asthma can come on at any age... including in the senior years. In fact, asthma in adults over the age of 65 has been growing...
This is a very timely series. I was one of those diagnosed with asthma late in life. AlthoughI wasn't quite in my 60's ( I was 58) I figure that that is close enough to qualify. In 2006 I had an upper respiratory infection and I was left with a chronic cough. My PCP referred me to a pulmonologist, even though I didn't think it necessary. My PFT's were average but the pulm thought something was up as well. So he had me take a methacholine challenge test which was positive for asthma.
Now with the right diagnosis, I was able to get proper education and proper medication. My quality of life , while not perfect, is much improved. Thank goodness for my doctor's good sense. I had just chalked it up to getting older. I'm glad that they were more insistent than I was stubborn.
Great series,
Tom
Thanks for the feedback, Tom! And I'm glad you're finding it helpful. And doubly glad you listened to your doctor. Hope you do all the right things to stay healthy. :)
Take care,
Kathi