Asthma
Asthma is common, affecting millions of adults and 9 million children in the United States.
Approximately 40% of children with asthmatic parents will develop asthma.
Asthma is the cause of 4,000 deaths each year.
What is Asthma?
Asthma occurs when airways in the lungs become inflamed & constricted. The muscles surrounding the airways tighten, and your mucus is produced inside the airway causing trouble breathing.
Asthma Symptoms
Cough, Shortness of breath, Chest tightness, Wheezing
Asthma Triggers
- Viral illnesses
- Allergies
- Exercise
- Weather
- Smoke/perfumes
- Gastroesophageal Reflux/Heartburn
- Pregnancy
Asthma Tests
Diagnosing Asthma can be difficult as signs and symptoms range from mild to severe, and there are many other conditions that mimic Asthma's symptoms, such as emphysema, wheezy bronchitis, and even pneumonia.
Once those have been ruled out, a breathing test (Pulmonary Function Test) is given to use in determining how much air moves in and out while you breathe. Sometimes this is done before and after using a bronchodilator, an inhaled medicator used to treat constriction of the airways.
If your lungs improve with the bronchodilator, it's probable that you have asthma.
Asthma Treatments & Management
Treatment for asthma involves avoiding triggers for asthma attacks. Most people with persistent asthma use a combination of long term medications along with a quick-relief inhaler.
Who We Are At Advancements in Allergy
At Advancements in Allergy, we know that the right care can make the difference between suffering with an allergic reaction and feeling better. We place great importance on having a complete & thorough knowledge of our patients, working closely with you to develop a strategy that works for you in treating and maintaining optimal personal health so you can feel better and therefore live better.
Our clinic emphasizes preventive care. We believe a personal, happy approach produces the best results. We combine the most modern medical knowledge with the warmest of care. We never forget to look at the patient as a "whole person" and consider each individual's preference and concerns in the development of a care plan.
At Advancements in Allergy & Asthma, we work hand in hand with your primary health care provider. This gives you access to the best of our vast Asthma expertise, while ensuring that your primary doctor is up to date on everything he/she needs to know about your specific needs. It's because we are a small asthma clinic that we are able to provide such personalized care with excellence in customer service.