Quitting smoking is crucial for improving lung function and enhancing the immune response...
Read MoreLiving with asthma can be challenging, but you're not alone. We understand the impact this chronic condition can have on your daily life, and we're dedicated to empowering you with the knowledge and tools you need to breathe easier.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a common respiratory condition that affects people of all ages. It can make breathing feel harder, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, coughing or wheezing. When you have asthma, your airways become inflamed and swollen, which causes them to narrow and makes it difficult for air to move in and out of your lungs smoothly.
The underlying mechanism involves chronic inflammation and swelling of the airways, which progressively narrows the bronchial tubes, making breathing increasingly challenging. Certain airborne pollutants, as well as physical activity, in the case of exercise-induced asthma, can trigger asthma symptoms and make it even harder to breathe. Identifying and avoiding your specific triggers can help reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.
Asthma Symptoms
Living with asthma means recognizing its varied symptoms. Common symptoms may include:
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Coughing, especially at night or early morning
- Difficulty breathing during physical activities
- Breathing difficulty when exposed to cold air, perfumes, or chemicals
Asthma Risk Factors
Understanding these risk factors can help you take proactive steps to reduce your risk of developing asthma or manage your symptoms effectively if you already have the condition.
- Family History: If you have a family history of asthma or other allergic conditions, such as hay fever or eczema, you may be more likely to develop asthma.
- Exposure to Tobacco Smoke: Exposure to tobacco smoke, particularly during pregnancy or in early childhood, can increase the risk of developing asthma. Exposure to secondhand smoke can worsen asthma symptoms in those who already have the condition.
- Allergies: If you have allergies, you may be more susceptible to developing asthma, especially if your allergies are not well-controlled.
- Environmental Factors: Living in an area with high levels of air pollution or frequent exposure to environmental allergens, such as pollen or dust mites, can increase the risk of developing asthma or exacerbate existing symptoms.
How is Asthma Diagnosed?
When diagnosing asthma, our pulmonology specialists start by asking about your medical history and any symptoms you have. Next, your doctor will perform a physical examination and listen to your lungs. They may also recommend lung function tests for a closer look at how well your lungs are working. A common lung function test is spirometry, where you breathe into a device that measures how much air you can exhale and how quickly you can do it.
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Asthma Treatment Options
Lifestyle Modifications
Identifying and avoiding triggers such as allergens, smoke and pollution can help minimize asthma symptoms. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and proper nutrition, can also contribute to better asthma control.
Medications
Inhalers and oral medications are commonly used to manage asthma symptoms. These medications may include bronchodilators to relax the muscles around the airways and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. In some cases, biologic medications may also be administered to improve asthma control.
Allergy Immunotherapy
For those sensitive to allergens, allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual tablets) may be recommended to desensitize the immune system to specific allergens, reducing asthma symptoms over time.
Our Approach to Asthma Treatment
At Inspira, we believe in a holistic approach to asthma care that addresses the physical, emotional and lifestyle factors that affect our patients. Our multidisciplinary team of pulmonologists, allergists, respiratory therapists and nurses works collaboratively to provide comprehensive care tailored to your needs. From accurate diagnosis to personalized treatment plans and ongoing support, we are dedicated to helping you breathe easier and live life to the fullest.
