Asthma Treatment
Asthma Information
More than 25 million people in the U.S. have asthma. It is a long-term disease that causes your airways to become swollen and inflamed, making it hard to breathe. There is no cure for asthma, but it can be managed and controlled.
The best way to manage asthma is to avoid triggers, take medications to prevent symptoms, and prepare to treat asthma episodes if they occur.
What Are the Symptoms of Asthma?
Common symptoms are coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness (or pain). Asthma may lead to a medical emergency. It is important to know the signs of a severe asthma episode (or asthma attack).
How Do Doctors Diagnose Asthma?
A doctor may use a few different ways to look for asthma. These include:
- Taking a detailed medical history
- A physical exam
- Lung function tests
- Blood tests to look for certain markers
- Allergy tests
- Chest or sinus X-ray
What Triggers Asthma?
Asthma symptoms can appear when you are exposed to a trigger. A trigger is something you are sensitive to that makes your airways become inflamed. This causes swelling, mucus production, and narrowing in your airways. Common asthma triggers are pollen, air pollution, animal allergens, scents/fragrances, certain gases, extreme weather changes, smoke, dust mites, stress, and exercise.
What Is the Treatment for Asthma?
You and your doctor will come up with a plan to treat your asthma. It often involves a blend of medication and avoiding your asthma triggers.