Barrington, IL Allergist on understanding asthma
Nearly 25 million Americans, almost half under the age of 18, have asthma. That is a staggering number. Asthma causes inflammation in the airway, making breathing difficult and causing a host of symptoms that can include shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, and tightening of the chest. Asthma is a serious chronic disease that can inhibit a person’s ability to lead an active lifestyle. When left untreated, asthma can lead to frequent emergency room and hospital visits. Fortunately, with proper treatment, most people can live an active and productive life with Asthma. At Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates, we diagnose and treat people for asthma on a daily basis.
Understanding Asthma: Symptoms
There are three main symptoms associated with asthma: airway obstruction, swelling of the bronchial tubes, and sensitive airways.
- Airway obstruction. In people suffering from asthma, environmental and allergens can cause the bands around the airway to tighten, leading to shortness of breath and wheezing.
- Swelling of bronchial tubes. Treating this type of inflammation is imperative to controlling long-term damage to the lungs from asthma.
- Sensitive airways. People with asthma tend to have reactions to even the smallest amounts of allergen triggers like pollen, animal dander, and dust.
Understanding Asthma: Causes
The cause of asthma is generally unknown and can vary in each individual. The one symptom that is consistent across the board is narrowing and inflammation of the airways in response to asthma triggers.
Asthma attacks occur when the muscles around the airway begin to spasm, the airways become inflamed, and large amounts of mucous make breathing difficult. Wheezing, cough, and shortness of breath are common signs of an asthma attack.
Understanding Asthma: Treatment
Asthma medications can control the disease and allow patients to leave a healthy, active life. Inhaled steroids are one of the most common treatments for asthma sufferers. They reduce mucus production and inflammation of the airways, making them less likely to respond to triggers. Inhalers are the best way to deliver medication to the lungs. Short-acting bronchodilator inhalers (rescue inhalers) can work quickly to relieve the symptoms of an asthma attack. These are not considered daily routine treatment and should be used less than twice per week.
Come in to our clinic today to learn more about asthma, and discover how, with proper diagnosis and treatment, asthma sufferers can regain control of their daily life.