ASTHMA
ASTHMA
Asthma is a chronic lung disease with no known cure that affects all age groups. Nonetheless, asthmatics can lead active lives by identifying asthma triggers and following a treatment plan.
Triggers include:
- Allergens, e.g., pet dander, dust, mold, pollen
- Irritants, e.g., cigarette smoke, pollution
- Respiratory infections
- Weather changes
- Exercise
Asthma inflames and narrows airways, resulting in symptoms such as:
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Cough
- Chest tightness
Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can occur daily, weekly, or infrequently. Symptoms might worsen at night.
Asthma is the most common chronic illness in children. Left untreated or under-treated, it can lead to significantly reduced quality of life. KCAA physicians specialize in evaluating and treating asthma properly. Lack of proper treatment could lead to:
- Compromised lung function
- Exercise limitations
- Difficulty sleeping
- Missing school or work
- Costly and stressful ER visits
- Loss of life
We base asthma diagnosis on medical history, a physical exam, and specialized tests. Results lead to a targeted, customized treatment plan. Asthma has a strong genetic component which means multiple family members suffer.
Asthma treatment includes two main components:
- Rescue/Reliever Medicines
These fast-acting medications relax muscle spasms in the airways to address sudden symptoms. - Controller Medicines
These medications provide long-term control and future control of symptoms by relaxing muscle spasms and reducing inflammation in the airways. Inhaled steroids are commonly used.
