Asthma Specialist

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic, or long-term, health problem that affects about 1 in 12 people (approximately 25 million) in the United States. This condition affects people of all ages but often begins in childhood.

When you have asthma, the airways in your lungs become inflamed and swollen. This leads to periods of coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing that are known as asthma attacks. 

Asthma attacks can occur rarely or every day with symptoms that range from mild to severe. For some people, asthma can be a major problem that hinders daily activities and may even lead to a life-threatening attack. 

Fortunately, the expert team at Respiratory Critical Care and Sleep Specialists provides personalized care to help you or your child control asthma symptoms.

What are the symptoms of asthma?

The type, severity, and frequency of asthma symptoms vary from person to person. Common signs and symptoms of asthma include:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness or pain
• Whistling or wheezing sound when you exhale
• Difficulty sleeping due to coughing, wheezing, or breathlessness

Asthma attacks are periods when symptoms get much worse. Attacks can occur suddenly and may be life-threatening. Your provider at Respiratory Critical Care and Sleep Specialists helps you identify when your asthma symptoms require emergency treatment.

What causes asthma attacks?

Exposure to certain conditions and substances can trigger asthma symptoms and lead to an attack. Asthma triggers vary from person to person, but may include:

• Exercise
• Respiratory infections
• Airborne allergens like pollen and pet dander
• Air pollutants like smoke

Your provider at Respiratory Critical Care and Sleep Specialists works with you to identify your personal asthma triggers and helps you create a plan to avoid them as much as possible.

How is asthma diagnosed and treated?

First, your provider at Respiratory Critical Care and Sleep Specialists reviews your symptoms and medical history and performs a physical exam. They may take a test, such as spirometry, to measure your lung function.

Then, they develop a personalized treatment plan to manage your asthma symptoms. Asthma treatment focuses on preventing attacks and controlling symptoms with medication, inhalers, and avoidance of known triggers. 

If you or a loved one has asthma, call Respiratory Critical Care and Sleep Specialists or book an appointment online today.