CARE
Posted April 28, 2021
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition affecting the airways in the lungs. There isn’t a cure for asthma, but it is treatable. Symptoms can be mild, moderate or severe. If asthma interferes with your favorite activities or quality of life and you’re looking for answers, this article is for you.
Early asthma symptoms include:
An asthma attack is a sudden respiratory reaction caused by asthma triggers. Many asthmatics know the feeling. Your lungs swell and airways shrink, making it difficult to breathe.
Now you’re coughing, wheezing and your chest feels tight from constriction of the airways and mucus buildup. Treat your early symptoms right away to avoid a severe attack.
Other asthma attack warning signs include:
Contact your provider if you experience asthma symptoms and haven’t been diagnosed. They can help you create an asthma management plan to control your symptoms and prevent attacks. During an asthma attack, it’s critical to get asthma treatment right away. Use your rescue inhaler, nebulizer or other necessary medications and get medical attention as soon as possible if your symptoms worsen.
According to the CDC, people with moderate to severe uncontrolled asthma are more likely to be hospitalized from COVID-19. While asthmatics aren’t at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19, the virus can complicate asthma symptoms.
Mask-wearing, proper hygiene, the COVID-19 vaccine and physical distancing can protect you from the virus and prevent hospitalization from asthma-related complications.
A variety of respiratory conditions can provoke breathing issues. A provider can confirm the cause of your symptoms and rule out other conditions such as bronchitis and sinusitis. Tell your provider if you have a family history of asthma.
Asthma is diagnosed using methods such as:
Many common asthma triggers can worsen your symptoms. Prevention is your best defense. Avoid your triggers when possible and take asthma treatment medications recommended by your provider.
Each type of asthma varies in signs, symptoms and treatments. Asthma symptoms can be prevented by avoiding common triggers whenever possible. Your provider may recommend taking allergy and asthma medications to treat your symptoms.
Asthma is often diagnosed during childhood at 5 years of age or older. When you become more sensitive to allergens over time, it can lead to adult-onset asthma. Adults often experience heightened allergen sensitivity and more persistent symptoms with age.
Extrinsic reactions are often triggered by pollen, dust mites, animal dander, mold, irritants and other allergens. Many people with asthma also experience allergy symptoms.
Your workout may cause shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing or chest tightness. Creating an asthma management plan and using a prescription asthma inhaler can help you stay active without experiencing severe symptoms.
Asthma typically flares up from certain triggers, is diagnosed during childhood, is easier to manage and the symptoms aren’t always persistent. People with COPD often don’t experience symptoms until after age 40 and many have a long-term history of smoking.
Treatment options are recommended based on your asthma type, severity, age and triggers. Your provider will help you create an asthma management plan to control your symptoms and determine which medications work best for you.
Asthma can be an expensive condition to manage. Find out if you qualify for the Prescription Assistance Program.
Short-term (rescue) asthma medications can quickly treat moderate to severe symptoms or an asthma attack. Some short-term asthma medications are recommended before exercise to prevent exercise-induced asthma.
Long-term asthma treatment medications are taken daily to control your symptoms, lower your chances of having an asthma attack and prevent hospitalization.
A healthy lifestyle, routine visits with your provider, avoiding triggers and medication can ease your asthma symptoms. Schedule an appointment or a virtual visit to discuss asthma treatment options right for you. Your provider may refer you to an immunology, allergy or respiratory specialist for long-term care.
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