Asthma Center of Exellence
The Disease
Asthma is a disease of the air passages to the lungs.
It causes breathing problems, which can be life
threatening. A chronic condition, which can start
at any age, asthma, cannot be cured -- but it can
be controlled.
During an ASTHMA ATTACK, the air passages to the
lungs, known as bronchial tubes, narrow due to increased
mucus production, swelling, and tightening. These
changes make breathing difficult.
Asthma can be mild, moderate or severe.
Early warning signs of the start of an attack include
tightness in your chest. You might cough or spit
up mucus. Sometimes, a whistling or wheezing sound
can be heard when you breathe -- this is caused
by the narrowing of air passages. Other possible
symptoms include headache, nausea, sweating, irritability,
and a slightly elevated temperature. Children and
adults may have a poor appetite and/or complain
of being tired.
If you let the attack progress, you may find it
harder to breathe. You will have trouble talking.
Your neck muscles may become tight, and your lips
and fingernails might have a grayish or bluish color.
Severe Attacks
Get emergency help immediately. Don't wait, because
your condition could worsen.
The sooner you see a doctor- either your own or
in an emergency room- the faster you get the help
you need.
Even if you have rare attacks, you may need to take
medicines on a regular basis. There are many new
medicines available for asthma. Discuss with your
doctor which ones are right for you. In fact, your
doctor may send you to an asthma specialist for
more care. Our hospital has an asthma care training
program.
Certain 'triggers' or aggravating factors can bring
on an asthma attack. Knowing and avoiding these
triggers can stop an attack before it starts.
Triggers include:
- Cigarette smoke - if you smoke, quit now; avoid
second-hand smoke.
- Respiratory infections - includes common cold, flu,
and other viruses.
- Allergens - such as trees, grasses, mold spores,
ragweed, dust mites, food, cockroaches, animal fur,
etc.
- Inhalation of irritating substances - among these
are vapors from cleaning solvents, paint and paint
thinners, deodorant sprays, colognes, perfumes and
air pollution.
- Exercise - discuss this with your doctor; it is
well known that several Olympic athletes who have
asthma and use their medicines properly are able
to win medals.
- Emotional Factors - anxiety may increase the severity
of symptoms.
- Hormones - even our hormones can lead to more severe
asthma.
You should see a doctor regularly about your asthma.
Also, be aware that your symptoms or triggers can
change over time. You may need different medicines
to keep you healthy. Always take your medicines
as prescribed, even when you feel well. Drink plenty
of fluids.
Effectively controlling asthma and allergies requires
planning, skill and patience. An allergist can also
help with asthma-associated conditions, such as:
- Eczema
- Hives
- Food allergies
- Hay fever
- Pet allergies
- Insect stings and bites
- Medication reactions
- Indoor pollution
If you suffer from asthma or allergies, a highly
trained allergist and staff will help you learn
more about your problem and provide advice and treatments
that control or eliminates your symptoms.
Please call for more information: (516) 572-4949
or (516) 572-8710
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