Hi, I would like to know why when I have asthma and my chest is tight my throat feels like I have a lump in it or a choking feeling?

Asthma is a condition in which the airways are hyperreactive and oversensitive to normal stimuli or allergic stimuli. In response, the smooth muscles in the bronchioles constrict, decreasing the diameter of the airways and making it harder to breathe. In addition, inflammatory chemicals are released and the tissue swells as well as produces mucous. All this contributes to the wheezing characteristic of this condition and the difficulty with breathing.

I am not exactly sure why you may feel like you have a lump in your throat when you are experiencing an asthma exacerbation, however it is understandable that you may feel like you are suffocating. If your nails or lips look blue this can be a sign of severe oxygen depirvation and you would need emergency medical attention. Asthma can be a deadly disease if not treated appropriately. It is important to have an action plan in place with your healthcare provider in case of an emergency.

Here is a rule of thumb called the rule of 3: If you need to use rescue medications more than 2 times a week, or you wake up short of breath in the early morning hours more than 3 times per month, or you need to refill your rescue medication perscriptions more than 3 times per year, your asthma may not be under optimal control. Maintenence therapy may be appropriate.

Asthma is a serious medical condition but it doesn't have to limit you in physical activity if properly controlled. Consult with your physician to make sure you are getting the best treatment possible and so you know the warning signs for when you need immediate medical assistance.