Should I get tested for asthma?

Question

I recently went on a camping trip and experienced extreme shortness of breath, even when I wasn't doing anything strenuous. (No coughing fits though) I've been camping a million times in my life, and have no allergies as far as I know. Both of my parents have smoked my entire life, but I don't. Even now that I've returned from the trip, and and before the trip, I've experienced similar shortness of breath, almost like I'm breathing through a sponge or a thick piece of material. It was just more noticable during the camping trip where I did a lot of walking and biking.

My mother said it was because I'm not used to the physical activity, but I'm not really out of shape. Over the summer I have been kind of lazy, but I'm not out of shape.

Answer 1

Yes, if in any doubt get tested, no question in it. Was it a tightness it your chest?

Answer 2

YES

Answer 3

You bet.  The test for asthma frequently done is called a methacholine challenge.  They bring you in for pulmonary function tests, and then try to give you an asthma attack by using a drug called methacholine.  If you react poorly to the inhaled medication, you have asthma...if nothing happens you don't.