Overall, an estimated 14.6 million Americans have the disease. The eight signs of asthma trouble Wheezing, beginning as a slight whistling sound and progressing to a shrill noise with each labored breath. Coughing that gets worse over minutes to hours. Chest skin is sucked in as the patient struggles for air. Breathing out takes longer than inhaling.
Breathing is faster.
Blue nails and lips, especially in children. Sudden anxiety and apprehension, especially in children. Shortness of breath. American Lung Association Family Guide to Asthma and Allergies. Nor is it something that should be treated only in emergency rooms.