Asthma

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects an average of 26 million Americans. People who suffer from it often experience shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. The air passages and airways that deliver oxygen to the lungs become inflamed as a result in which these passages and airways become narrower. This, in turn, obstructs airflow to the lungs and patients experience symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. People who suffer from asthma often have to refrain from engaging in activities that are too physically demanding. Asthma is frequently found in children and can disrupt their daily lives. At Allergy & Skin Spa, allergies and asthma are effectively treated daily. Dr. Kia will help find the right treatment plan for you.

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What Causes Asthma?

Asthma can leave you feeling helpless when you don’t feel like you have a handle on what triggers your attacks. Unfortunately, there isn’t an exact cause for asthma. Doctors believe that it may be caused by environmental and genetic factors. While there are no causes for asthma, it can be set off by certain triggers. Being able to get a handle on your triggers may help you to get some control of your asthma, and can help you to not be caught off guard by any flare-ups. Some of the most common triggers are listed as follows: 

• Respiratory infections
• Airborne substances
• Medications
• Stress
• Genetic predispositions
• Smoking

What Are The Symptoms?

Asthma patients exhibit some very prominent symptoms which make it easier to detect. Some patients experience certain symptoms frequently while others may not experience any of the following symptoms for a long time. In fact, many patients can go for long periods of time without experiencing any of the below-mentioned symptoms. When detected early on, asthma can be treated more effectively. Here are some of the most common symptoms:

Coughing fits

One of the main symptoms of asthma is coughing fits, especially at night. This is because when a person lies flat, mucus tends to collect at the base of the throat which obstructs the intake of air. This triggers coughing fits. People who suffer from asthma are recommended to sleep with their heads in an elevated position to avoid the mucus from accumulating at the back of the throat.

Chest tightness

People who suffer from asthma often complain of a persisting feeling of chest tightening. It feels as though the chest is squeezing tight, making it difficult for patients to breathe and causing them to continuously have to take large gulps of air. This is a common symptom of an attack and occurs because the airways become swollen.

Whistling sounds

Patients who suffer from asthma often hear a whistling sound when they inhale. This is again caused by inflamed pathways.

How Is Asthma Diagnosed and Treated?

Asthma is diagnosed with the help of tests to determine the functioning of the lungs. The most popular test is the pulmonary function test or the PFT. Other tests include allergic tests that determine whether you are allergic to certain substances, foods, and so on. Dr. Kia, with over ten years of experience in treating asthma, makes use of very precise methods to diagnose the condition. PFTs are used to determine lung function. This is done using spirometry tests. The spirometry tests are conducted using a device called the spirometer. Your nostrils are closed by clipping them. A breathing mask is then placed across your mouth. On the doctor’s instruction, you will have to inhale deeply, hold your breath for a couple of seconds and then exhale to your maximum capacity. The test is repeated at least three times or more until the reading is taken each time is consistent.