When we think of asthma, we often associate it with children. However, a growing number of adults—especially in Northeast India—are being diagnosed with adult-onset asthma. Yes, you can develop asthma as an adult, even if you’ve never had breathing issues in your childhood.

In this blog, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, and triggers of adult-onset asthma, why it's becoming increasingly common in states like Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh, and what steps you can take to manage and prevent asthma in adulthood.

Why Asthma Is on the Rise in Northeast India

Over the past few years, Northeast India has seen a noticeable spike in adult asthma cases, especially in urban areas like Guwahati, Shillong, and Imphal. Factors contributing to this rise include:

  • Rapid urbanization and construction dust

  • Air pollution from traffic and industrial activities

  • High humidity and changing climate conditions

  • Burning of biomass and firewood in rural areas

  • Seasonal pollen and plant allergens unique to the Northeast's biodiversity

  • Increasing tobacco use and secondhand smoke exposure

These environmental and lifestyle factors are now making previously healthy adults more vulnerable to developing asthma—a serious respiratory condition that affects quality of life.

🚨 What Is Adult-Onset Asthma?

Adult-onset asthma refers to asthma that is diagnosed after the age of 18. It often goes unnoticed or misdiagnosed as allergies, sinus problems, or bronchitis.

People in their 30s, 40s, and even 60s can suddenly develop symptoms such as:

  • Persistent coughing, especially at night

  • Wheezing (a whistling sound while breathing)

  • Shortness of breath

  • Chest tightness or pain

  • Frequent respiratory infections that linger longer than usual

Common Triggers of Asthma in Northeast India

1. Dust and Pollution

  • Construction sites in Guwahati, Silchar, and Aizawl release large amounts of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), which irritate the lungs.

2. Pollen and Seasonal Allergies

  • Flowering plants and trees in hilly areas like Shillong and Kohima release airborne allergens that can trigger asthma attacks.

3. Indoor Smoke

  • In many rural households, cooking with firewood or coal in poorly ventilated kitchens can cause chronic exposure to harmful smoke.

4. Weather Extremes

  • The monsoon season brings high humidity, mold, and dust mites—common triggers for adult asthma.

  • Cold winters in the hills can also worsen symptoms due to dry air and respiratory infections.

Who Is at Risk for Developing Asthma as an Adult?

You may be more likely to develop asthma as an adult if you:

  • Live in urban areas with poor air quality (like parts of Guwahati)

  • Have a family history of asthma or allergies

  • Work in dusty or chemical-heavy environments (construction, textile, agriculture)

  • Are overweight or obese

  • Are exposed to tobacco smoke or smoke from burning biomass

  • Have a history of frequent respiratory infections

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you’re experiencing breathing issues, it’s important to get tested.

Doctors may use:

  • Lung function tests (spirometry)

  • Peak flow measurements

  • Allergy testing

Treatment may include:

  • Inhaled corticosteroids to reduce inflammation

  • Bronchodilators (reliever inhalers) for quick relief

  • Allergy medications if allergens are a trigger

  • Lifestyle modifications to avoid environmental triggers

Managing Adult-Onset Asthma in the Northeast: Prevention Tips

  1. Use an air purifier at home to reduce indoor pollutants

  2. Avoid outdoor exercise during peak pollution hours or during dust storms

  3. Wear an N95 mask when traveling in polluted or dusty areas

  4. Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke

  5. Keep your home mold-free, especially during the monsoon

  6. Stay updated with flu and pneumonia vaccinations to avoid complications

Take Action This Year on World Asthma Day

With World Asthma Day around the corner, it's the perfect time to raise awareness about adult asthma and the increasing challenges in Northeast India. Whether you live in the hills of Meghalaya or the plains of Assam, lung health must become a top priority.

Yes, you can develop asthma as an adult, and people across Northeast India are increasingly facing this issue due to rapid environmental and lifestyle changes.

If you’ve noticed symptoms like coughing, breathlessness, or wheezing, don’t ignore them—see a doctor and get tested. Your lungs will thank you.

Share this blog to spread awareness about adult-onset asthma in Northeast India. The more people know, the better we can breathe together.