What does asthma actually feel like?

Hard 2 blow balloon: Some report it feels like someone sitting on one's chest, others describe it like trying to blow up a balloon that has a stopper in it. As a doc w asthma i agree with both.

Varies: Chest tightness, coughing fits that are hard to stop, shortness of breath, difficulty getting air out (or in), smothering, etc are all symptoms of uncontrolled asthma.

Symptoms...: Asthma typically feels like trying to breathe with a lot of resistance, like breathing through a very small straw. It usually feels like you cannot completely fill your lungs and there is a lot of coughing and wheezing when you try to exhale. It is a very uncomfortable and scary sensation as it feels like there is not enough air!