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Asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory lung condition that usually starts in childhood but can occur at any age. In this condition, the airways narrow and swell resulting in recurrent symptoms of:

  • Coughing
  • Wheezing (whistling expiratory noise when breathing)
  • Shortness of Breath
  • Chest Tightness

Asthmatic triggers can include:

  • Allergens (pollen, animal proteins, dust mite, mold, cockroach)
  • Common Cold
  • Weather Changes
  • Exercise
  • Irritants (cigarette smoke, air pollution, chemicals, etc.)
  • Emotion

Allergists are considered the experts in asthma and diagnose this condition by history, exam and breathing tests (spirometry, exhaled nitric oxide evaluation, bronchoprovocation challenge) of the airways. Allergists can also complete allergy skin tests to identify allergenic triggers in patients with asthma.  

The goals of asthma treatment are to prevent asthma related symptoms and asthma flares. 

Treatment includes:

  • Controller Medications
  • Rescue Medications
  • Allergen Avoidance for Allergic Asthma
  • Immunotherapy for Allergic Asthma

With proper treatment and avoidance of allergenic triggers, most asthmatics can live a perfectly normal life.

By visiting an allergist, you too can take control of your asthma and improve your quality of life.