Asthma Testing
Asthma is a chronic lung condition that affects over 20 million Americans. It typically begins in childhood, although it can occur at any age. Asthma is characterized by mucous production, inflammation and narrowing of the airways. The typical symptoms include wheezing, shortening of breath and tightening of the chest. Even a chronic cough may be a sign of bronchial asthma. These symptoms can occur on a daily basis or only with specific triggers.
Allergic asthma is triggered by specific allergens such as dust mites, molds, animal dander, airborne pollens and cockroaches. Patients with allergic asthma will experience symptoms after exposure to these allergic triggers. Other triggers include infections such as colds, flu, or bronchitis, exercise or even pregnancy can worsen asthma. Avoidance of allergic triggers can be extremely helpful to minimize asthma symptoms, often without needing ongoing medications. If you cannot avoid asthma triggers and your symptoms persist despite using medications, allergy immunotherapy or allergy shots are recommended. These treatments have been proven effective in controlling some forms of asthma.
There is much that can be done to control asthma and minimize its symptoms. Medications such as bronchodilators can control the wheezing and chest tightness .Inhaled corticosteroids, leukotriene modifiers, or even steroid pills such as prednisone, may be taken on a daily basis for those with chronic symptoms.
We can help you develop a treatment plan to deal with your asthma, minimize your symptoms and allow you to live a normal life free of debilitating asthma symptoms.