Asthma

What is asthma?

Asthma is a condition in which chronic inflammation in the airways of your lungs causes difficulty breathing and other symptoms. You may have mild, moderate, or severe asthma symptoms; a severe asthma attack can be life-threatening when left untreated.

What are the symptoms of asthma?

When inflammation and irritation cause constriction in your airways, it can cause a variety of symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Chest pain or tightness
• Nighttime or early morning coughing
• Difficulty performing strenuous exercise

Asthma can also interfere with your ability to sleep deeply or cause frequent wakings at night.

How do I know if I have asthma?

Many people with asthma are first diagnosed as children. However, asthma can develop at any age. If you have chronic respiratory symptoms, the caring providers at Pinnacle Health Group can determine if you have asthma.

Your practitioner will perform a comprehensive physical exam, including some breathing tests to check the function of your lungs. X-rays, allergy tests, or a mucus culture may also be necessary to rule out any other possible cause of your respiratory symptoms.

Once you’ve been diagnosed with asthma, your provider will help you identify your triggers so you can learn to avoid them. They’ll also spend time educating you about the best treatment options for controlling the condition based on your individual needs.

What can trigger an asthma attack?

The most common asthma triggers are environmental irritants. These include:

• Pet dander
• Smoke
• Perfumes
• Mold
• Pollen
• Dust mites
• Pollutants

For some asthma sufferers, certain types of food, respiratory infections, or strenuous exercise may also trigger an asthma attack.

How is asthma treated?

Asthma can’t be cured, but it can be successfully controlled with help from the qualified team at Pinnacle Health Group.

Options for controlling asthma include:

• Trigger identification and avoidance
• Long-term medications to reduce and minimize attacks
• Quick-relief medications for rapid symptom relief
• Allergy medications and/or immunotherapy
• Lifestyle changes

If you have severe asthma, you may need to carry a fast-acting “rescue” medication, such as a corticosteroid inhaler, which can halt the symptoms of a life-threatening asthma attack.  

To learn more about the medical management of asthma, call Pinnacle Health Group today, or make an appointment online.

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