Beginner’s Guide to Asthma
Nearly 25 million Americans suffer from asthma, a chronic disease that causes the airways to become inflamed and obstruct breathing. Though there is no cure for asthma, proper diagnosis and treatment can help you live a normal, active life with your condition. Get started with the basic information here, then call an allergy specialist to begin your own recovery process.
What Is Asthma, and Do You Have It?
Asthma is a medical condition that causes the airways to become narrow, swell, and produce extra mucus. These three simultaneous changes make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Asthma impacts patients differently; some only consider in a minor nuisance, while others struggle to complete simple daily activities.
There are many different symptoms that can indicate asthma. Depending on the person, some signs only arise at certain times, while others are always noticeable.
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain and tightness
- Coughing, wheezing
- A whistling or wheezing sound when exhaling
If you experience at least one or two of these symptoms, you likely have asthma.
What Causes Asthma?
It is believed that asthma develops from a blend of environmental and genetic factors. Exposure to irritants and allergens in the air is one of the most prevalent trigger of asthma, especially pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, and insect waste. Other asthma triggers include physical activity, respiratory infections, cold air, and stress.
How to Prevent and Treat Asthma Attacks
Though asthma cannot be cured, there are many steps that you can take to prevent asthma attacks and treat your condition so that it does not reduce your quality of life. This begins with making an appointment at an allergy specialist like Kratz Allergy & Asthma in Odessa or Port Richey, Florida.
Dr. Kratz will help you identify your asthma triggers and develop an asthma action plan that provides ongoing control and helps you avoid your triggers. If you have severe asthma, Dr. Kratz may also help you decrease your reliance on steroids by prescribing Fasenra or Nucala, two new treatments that are clinically proven to reduce exacerbations and support better breathing, reduce asthma attacks, and significantly cut steroid use. Call (813) 670-7062 now to make your first appointment.