What is asthma?
Asthma is a long-term condition that causes the airways in your lungs to narrow, swell, and produce excess mucus. This makes it difficult to breathe and can cause symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness.
Periods of symptom flare-ups are called asthma attacks. The severity of an asthma attack can range from mild to life-threatening.
How do I know if I have asthma?
Whistling or wheezing when you breathe is the most common symptom of asthma. Other asthma symptoms include:
- Constant coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain or tightness
- Difficulty sleeping due to coughing
You may experience asthma symptoms all the time, or only occasionally. Certain factors may induce asthma symptoms, such as exercise or exposure to smoke. The best way to find out if you have asthma is to schedule a pulmonary function test at the office of Mez, Tan, & Sarante.
What causes asthma?
The exact cause of asthma remains unknown, but exposure to substances that trigger allergic reactions (allergens) may lead to flare-ups. Asthma triggers are different for every person, but common examples include:
- Airborne substances like pet dander and pollen
- Air pollutants like smoke
- Respiratory infections
- Stress and strong emotions
- Physical activity
- Cold air
Certain medications, such as ibuprofen, and preservatives added to foods may also trigger asthma symptoms.
How is asthma diagnosed?
First, your physician at Mez, Tan, & Sarante reviews your symptoms and medical history and performs a physical exam. Pulmonary function tests are ordered to confirm asthma and rule out other conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and respiratory infections.
Spirometry is a common pulmonary function test that measures the amount of air you can exhale as well as how quickly you can breathe out.
How is asthma treated?
After your diagnosis, the team at Mez, Tan, & Sarante develops a plan to control your asthma symptoms. Identifying and avoiding asthma triggers is an important part of preventing flare-ups.
Your asthma treatment plan may also include taking medications, including preventive ones, to reduce inflammation and quick-relief inhalers to help you breathe during an attack. The team at Mez, Tan, & Sarante continues to monitor your condition with pulmonary function tests and adjusts your treatment plan as needed.
If you think you may have asthma, call the office of Mez, Tan, & Sarante, or book an appointment online today for a pulmonary function test.
