What are the symptoms of asthma?

Asthma symptoms can come and go. The most common signs of asthma are:

• Coughing
• Trouble breathing
• Tightness in your chest
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing

You may experience asthma attacks that are mild, severe, or somewhere in between. A mild episode of asthma may last just a few minutes, while a more serious episode may persist hours or days.

What causes asthma?

Allergens and various substances can trigger asthma, including:

• Environmental irritants (smoke, pollution, etc.)
• Strong odors or perfumes
• Chemical fumes
• Extreme weather
• A respiratory condition or the flu

Asthma is also provoked by strong emotions that disrupt your breathing. Science shows rapid breathing can tighten bronchial tubes, possibly setting off or worsening an attack.

What is the process for diagnosing asthma?

An accurate diagnosis is the key to asthma control and breathless mornings becoming a thing of the past. Your doctor at Dominion Family Healthcare will work to identify the root of your asthma. They may ask about your family history of allergies and asthma, as well as your personal experience with potential asthma triggers. This might include:

• Sinus infection
• Reflux disease
• Stress
• Sleep apnea
  

You might need to take a breath test, which involves blowing into a hollow tube. The test helps your doctor gauge how well the airways in your lungs are working.

To help confirm your diagnosis, you may also need a chest X-ray, exercise test, or skin test to see if you have an allergic reaction to certain substances.

What is the treatment for asthma?

At Dominion Family Health, we understand that asthma can disrupt your daily life. That’s why our doctors take a personalized approach to asthma treatment. We’ll work together to create a treatment plan that manages your symptoms and keeps you breathing easy. This often includes a combination of quick-relief medication for sudden flare-ups and long-term control medication to prevent future attacks.

The goal of your treatment is to prevent uncomfortable symptoms to:

• Help you maintain healthy, well-functioning lungs
• Allow you to continue doing all the activities you enjoy
• Give you a restful night’s sleep
• Prevent asthma attacks that could result in an emergency room visit or hospital stay
  

Ready to finally breathe easy and manage your asthma? Schedule an appointment with the asthma specialists at Dominion Family Healthcare in San Antonio. Call today or book online for lasting relief and a healthier you!