What is asthma?
Asthma is a common respiratory condition that causes your airways to swell, narrow, and produce extra mucus. Over time, this can interfere with your breathing, triggering attacks of coughing, wheezing, and breathlessness.
For some people, asthma only causes minor problems; for others, it’s life-threatening. Unfortunately, there’s no cure for asthma, but it’s possible to manage its symptoms. Asthma affects you differently as you get older, so it’s important to work with a trusted medical professional like Dr. Dudley so you can monitor your symptoms over time.
What are the symptoms of asthma?
The symptoms of asthma vary depending on the severity of your condition. However, telltale signs include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Chest pain
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Difficulty exercising
You might also have trouble sleeping comfortably; people with asthma often experience wheezing and shortness of breath when they lie down at night.
What causes asthma?
Researchers and doctors aren’t entirely sure what causes asthma, but it’s thought that a combination of genetic and environmental factors plays a role. If you have asthma, exposure to certain triggers can cause your symptoms to become worse. Common asthma triggers include:
- Pollen
- Dust mites
- Respiratory infections
- Certain medications
- Stress
- Stomach problems
In addition, there are certain factors that may increase your risk of asthma, including being overweight, smoking cigarettes, or having a family member with asthma.
What’s the process of diagnosing asthma diagnosed?
To diagnose asthma, Dr. Dudley does a physical exam, asks you a series of questions about your symptoms, and reviews your medical history. She also conducts a series of lung function tests to determine your overall respiratory health and lung capacity. Depending on your symptoms, Dr. Dudley might recommend spirometry or peak flow test. She might also order a series of X-rays to get a closer look at your lungs.
What does asthma management involve?
No two asthma management plans are exactly alike. Dr. Dudley formulates treatment based on your unique needs, symptoms, and health history. If you only experience flare-ups occasionally, Dr. Dudley might recommend lifestyle changes such as investing in a flu shot or avoiding asthma triggers. For more serious cases, Dr. Dudley might prescribe an inhaler or other prescription medications that ease inflammation and promote healthy breathing.
Don’t let respiratory problems prevent you from living a healthy, active lifestyle. If you’re suffering from asthma, request an appointment for asthma management at SpringRidge Medical Clinic today –– simply call the office or click the online booking tool.
