Asthma

What is asthma?

Asthma is a respiratory illness that causes difficulty breathing because of muscle spasms in the airways that carry oxygen in and out of your lungs. These spasms cause inflammation, which results in you not being able to get enough air to breathe. If you can’t breathe, you can show symptoms like:

• Tight chest
• Persistent coughing 
• Labored breathing

If your attack lasts for too long, you could trigger a serious attack that requires immediate attention. Severe asthma attacks can also lead to more complicated health issues.

What causes asthma?

There is no one cause of asthma, and its triggers vary from person to person. Attacks are usually brought on by a combination of factors like:

• Airborne irritants (pollen, dust, etc.)
• Respiratory infections
• Intense physical activity
• Cold air
• Certain medications
• Air pollution
• Food preservatives

You need tests to learn exactly what is triggering your asthma, which Advance Medical Group can provide quickly and painlessly.

Is asthma contagious?

No, asthma is not contagious and does not spread from person to person. If you have asthma, there is no reason you need to avoid your family and friends because you won’t infect them.

What are the treatments for asthma?

Although there is no cure for asthma, it is manageable. Each person is different, so your Advance Medical Group practitioner assesses you and prescribes treatment according to your particular case. 

Your specialist begins with a physical examination and asks questions about the symptoms you’re experiencing. Based on the information, your asthma treatment may include:

Inhaler

An inhaler is a portable device that delivers a quick, concentrated dose of medication to relax your airways when you are having an attack.

Oral medication

Oral medication is long-term therapy for more severe cases of asthma.

Asthma diet

Some foods trigger asthma attacks, and your provider helps you identify and avoid them.

Air filters

Some asthma attacks happen because of airborne irritants like pollen, and air purifiers make a huge difference. When you use them in combination with another treatment like inhalers, they reduce the frequency and severity of your attacks.

Asthma treatments can vary from prescription drugs to at-home treatments. To understand the right prescription for you, make an appointment over the phone or online, to get assessed by a specialist at Advance Medical Group.