In adult onset asthma, women are more often affected than men. Wheezing upon breathing out. Coughing, especially at night, with little sputum. Rapid, shallow breathing that is eased by sitting up.
Neck muscles tighten.
Inability to speak. Mental changes, including restlessness or confusion. This decreases or closes off air to the lungs. Lung infections such as bronchitis. Air irritants, such as smoke and odors.