Asthma

Asthma is a chronic disorder of the airways caused by airway narrowing and excessive mucus production. Adults and children with asthma may experience chronic coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and shortness of breath.

 The exact cause of asthma is not fully understood, but most likely both environmental factors and genetics play a role. After a thorough review of symptoms, a physical examination, and performance of special breathing tests, asthma may be diagnosed.  Once the allergist performs a comprehensive review of factors that may trigger asthma symptoms, a plan for avoiding those substances can be discussed.

In many cases, exposure to a substance (allergen) leads to an allergic reaction in the airway.  If allergy is suspected, testing can be done to confirm this, and a treatment plan will be designed to ease your symptoms and enable you to breathe easier.

Is it possible to control asthma? Asthma can be managed with appropriate medication and allergy avoidance. The vast majority of people with asthma lead active, healthy lives.

If you have asthma and you are following the directions recommended by a board certified allergist, you should be able to fully participate in all activities you desire. You should experience a full, restful sleep at night without coughing. You should not need to go to the emergency room or be hospitalized to treat asthma attacks. You will have a physician available 24 hours a day to help you when you are sick or need advice.