What are the symptoms of asthma?
If you have asthma, your symptoms might flare up at certain times, such as when you’re exercising, or they might happen on a regular basis. Some common symptoms of asthma include the following:
- Short, shallow breathing
- Chest pain
- Wheezing when breathing out
- Sleep disruptions due to breathing problems
When do I need prompt medical care for asthma?
If you have mild asthma, you might be able to control it on your own with help from a quick-relief inhaler. However, you should seek immediate medical care if you have symptoms that are considered an emergency. These include wheezing or shortness of breath that gets worse and no relief from symptoms after you use your inhaler.
Why do I have asthma?
The exact cause of asthma isn’t known, but several triggers can lead to asthma attacks. Some of these include the following:
- Pollen, mold, dust, and other airborne allergens
- Colds and other respiratory viruses
- Cold outdoor air
- Smoke and other air pollutants
- Stress
- Aspirin and other over-the-counter pain relievers
- Exercise
How dangerous is uncontrolled asthma?
If you don’t have asthma under control, you could be at risk of developing severe complications.
You might develop problems in your day-to-day life from poor sleep quality, or you might end up having trouble breathing comfortably. You might also need emergency care from severe and potentially fatal asthma attacks that make it hard or nearly impossible to breathe.
How is asthma diagnosed?
If you undergo testing for asthma, Dr. Allen might do a spirometry test that estimates how narrow your airway is. Another test you might undergo measures peak flow when you exhale. You might also need lung function tests after you use a bronchodilator to make your airway wider.
How can I manage asthma?
Managing asthma might involve taking long-term asthma medication, such as corticosteroids that you inhale. Dr. Allen might also recommend having a quick-relief inhaler on you in case of sudden and severe asthma attacks.
If you need asthma treatment, please contact Total Care Family Practice to make an appointment with Dr. Allen.
