Asthma
Asthma
Asthma is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell and may produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, a whistling sound (wheezing) when you breathe out and shortness of breath.
Asthma signs and symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath.
- Chest tightness or pain.
- Trouble sleeping caused by shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing.
- Coughing or wheezing attacks that are worsened by a respiratory virus, such as a cold or the flu.
Common Asthma triggers
Asthma is caused by inflammation of the breathing tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs, which makes them narrow and sensitive. This can happen randomly or after exposure to a trigger.
Some common triggers include:
- Indoor allergens, such as dust mites, mold, dander or fur.
- Outdoor allergens, such as pollens and mold.
- Emotional stress.
- Physical activity, although with treatment you or your child should still be able to stay active.
- Infections, such as colds, the flu, or COVID-19.
Asthma can have many different types, which can be caused by different triggers
Asthma Symptoms | Asthma Attack – MedlinePlus Jan 24, 2024-Different triggers can cause different types of asthma…. MedlinePlus (.gov)
Asthma can also be categorized by severity, with intermittent asthma being the mildest and having the least impact on daily life. Mild persistent asthma may have a minor impact, moderate persistent asthma may limit daily physical activity, and severe persistent asthma may have other limitations.
diagnose asthma
There is no cure for asthma, but there are many treatments that can help control symptoms and allow people with asthma to live normal lives.
Inhalers, which are devices that let you breathe in medicine, are the main treatment. Tablets and other treatments may also be needed if your asthma is severe.
Breathing treatments, also known as nebulized therapy, help people with respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) breathe more easily. During these treatments, medications are delivered to the lungs using a nebulizer which is done in office here during office visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Asthma is often described as tightness of the chest and airways with trouble breathing. It can be frightening and causes some people to feel panicked.
There is no cure for asthma, but you can control symptoms with treatment. A medical provider can customize an asthma treatment plan that works best for each individual patient.
Some studies show that asthma is not a risk factor for COVID-19. However, it’s important to keep asthma symptoms under control to help avoid complications if you do get COVID-19.
Any severe airway restriction that can’t be resolved quickly is considered life-threatening and requires emergency medical treatment. Uncontrolled asthma symptoms could include trouble breathing that doesn’t allow enough air in or out, skin color changes in lips, nails, or around eyes, or rapid breathing and wheezing.
If the asthma attack is severe and you do not have an inhaler, get immediate medical assistance. Until help arrives, you may be able to ease asthma symptoms by:
- Moving away from the trigger
- Sitting up straight to reduce airway restrictions
Remaining calm and breathing as steadily as possible.
Connect With Us
If you have a cut or laceration that needs medical attention, don’t wait. Contact us today to schedule a visit or walk into our clinic for immediate care. Your health and safety are our top priorities.