Asthma

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that affects millions of children and adults. It is frequently characterized by symptoms of coughing and/or wheezing. Asthma can be a serious medical condition and requires a medical specialist to best control the symptoms. There is no known cure for asthma at this time, but there is ongoing research for a cure. If you have any of these symptoms and want to take control, please contact our office at (920) 435-6601 and we would be happy to schedule you for an evaluation.

Asthma symptoms include:

• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Chest Tightness
• Shortness of Breath
• Difficulty Breathing
• Increased Mucous

Triggers can bring on asthma attacks. A trigger is any thing or condition that causes inflammation in the airways, which then leads to asthma symptoms. Your personal triggers can be very different from those of another person with asthma. It is important for you to identify your specific triggers and to avoid them in order to keep airway inflammation to a minimum and reduce the symptoms.

Asthma triggers may include:

• Viral infections or illness worsening at night
• Exertion or exercise
• Cold air
• Weather changes
• High Humidity
• Laughing or crying
• Strong smells like hair sprays or perfumes
• Tobacco smoke
• Contact with allergens (if you have allergies), such as mowing grass, raking leaves or animals

If you have asthma you should have an asthma action plan. An asthma action plan is a plan that states what medication you need to use or increase in order to control your asthma symptoms when they get out of control. Studies have shown that by having a written action plan which is directed by your specialist, you will be able to better manage your asthma at home. Take this sample with you to your doctor to start a discussion: Asthma Action Plan

You need to control your asthma in order that it doesn't control you. For people with asthma the best strategy is to prevent asthma symptoms. With an effective plan you should be able to lead a normal, active, productive life and achieve your goals.

Asthma Goals:

• Be active without symptoms or pre-treat before exercise
• Sleep all night without asthma symptoms
• Attend school and/or work regularly
• Have the clearest lungs possible and have normal lung studies shown by spirometry or pulmonary function tests
• Have few or no side effects from the medications
• Have no hospitalizations or emergency room visits, but know when you need to seek  immediate medical attention

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please feel free to contact us at (920) 435-6601.

For further information check out our Patient Education area.