Asthma is a common lung condition that can cause breathing difficulties and coughing, according to the NHS.

It can affect people of all ages, but is most commonly diagnosed in young children.

Common asthma symptoms are wheezing, feeling tight-chested or feeling out of breath.

But, having an itchy chin could also be a warning sign of the deadly lung condition, it’s been claimed.

Some asthma patients could have a sudden itchy around their throat before feeling out of breath, according to Respiratory Therapist Theresa Cannizzaro.

Asthma symptoms trigger the body to release histamine – chemicals that the immune system makes to get rid of allergens.

The histamine may be to blame for the itchiness in asthma patients, it’s been claimed.

“While these are very common asthma symptoms, not all asthma is created equal,” said Cannizzaro. “Our lungs are all different.

“Just as we have different triggers and some of us have allergies and some do not; we react and our bodies respond to an asthma flare in different ways.

“There are some unusual asthma symptoms you may have and may not even realise it.

“Some people experience an itchy chin and throat before an asthma flare-up.

“This is generally associated with allergic asthma but not always.”

Difficulty sleeping could also be a warning sign of the lung condition, she added.

The symptoms can get worse at night, preventing patients from getting enough sleep.

Persistent yawning or a chronic dry cough should also be seen by a doctor, she added.

Asthma symptoms can get worse from time to time, said the NHS.

This is known as an asthma attack. Every 10 seconds, someone in the UK has a potentially fatal asthma attack, said charity Asthma UK.

An attack can happen very suddenly, or build-up over a few days.

Signs of an asthma attack include having blue lips or fingers, fainting, and being too breathless to eat or speak.

Call 999 for an ambulance if you’re having an asthma attack and don’t have your inhaler with you, or if the symptoms aren’t improving despite taking your inhaler.