Asthma Resources

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease marked by coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. According to the CDC, 10.2 % of adults and 11.5% of children ages 0-17 in Pennsylvania are currently living with asthma.

Asthma is an airway disease caused by inflammation, swelling, constriction, and excess mucus production. The airways in individuals who have asthma react to triggers such as smoke, dust, pollen, fumes, infection, or exercise. As the airways narrow and become clogged with mucus, some or all the common asthma symptoms may occur.

More than 24 million Americans have been diagnosed with this commonly misunderstood and potentially fatal disease. However, asthma is controllable, and you can learn how to manage your asthma or help a family member breathe easier by knowing the warning signs, encouraging proper diagnosis, and following a physician's prescribed treatment plan.

The exact cause of asthma is not always clear, but several factors can contribute to its development:

• Exposure to allergens like molds, pollens, and pet dander
• Viral infections or illnesses that affect breathing
• Family history, especially a parent who has asthma

Asthma symptoms can range from mild to severe and should always be taken seriously and reported to a doctor. Common symptoms include:

• Coughing, primarily when not related to a cold
• Wheezing or noisy breathing
• Chest tightness
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Listlessness or lack of energy

While there is no cure for asthma, early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term lung damage and reduce the risk of asthma-related deaths. A doctor can asses your symptoms and perform lung function tests to diagnose asthma or other respiratory diseases.

• Medical Hisory: The doctor will ask about the patient's symptoms, family history of asthma, allergies, and exposure to potential triggers like smoke or pollution.
• Physical Exam: The doctor will listen to the patient's breathing and check for asthma signs, such as wheezing or a persistent cough.
• Breathing Tests: 
• Spirometry: The patient blows into a device that measures how much air is exhaled and how quickly. This test helps the doctor assess lung function.
• Peak Flow Meter: This handheld device measures how fast a patient can blow air out of their lungs. Lower readings can indicate asthma. 
• Allergy Tests: Sometimes, a doctor may perform skin or blood tests to see if allergies are triggering a patient's asthma.
• Additional Tests: If needed, a doctor may conduct other tests, like the methacholine challenge, where the patient inhales a substance that can cause mild asthma symptoms. If the lungs react, it may indicate asthma. 

Living with asthma can be challenging, but with proper care, you can manage it well. Here’s what it might be like:
 

Breathing Issues:

Sometimes, it can feel hard to breathe, like trying to suck air through a straw. This breathing issue can happen more often when you're around triggers like smoke, pollen, or pet fur.

Using Inhalers:

You'll likely need to carry an inhaler. There are two types: one for quick relief during an asthma attack and another for daily use to keep symptoms under control.

Avoiding Triggers:

Be mindful of things that can worsen your asthma. This might mean avoiding certain places or activities, like staying indoors on high pollen days or avoiding strenuous exercise without proper warm-up.

Regular Check-Ups:

Seeing your doctor regularly is essential to manage your asthma. They can help adjust your treatment if needed.