What is Asthma?

Although asthma can produce many symptoms, this condition is often characterized by coughing, wheezing, chest pain, and shortness of breath. The symptoms caused by asthma occur when a patient’s airways become inflamed, resulting in mucus production that ultimately makes it difficult to breathe. Depending on your condition's severity, you may only experience flare-ups when exposed to asthma triggers, or you may navigate your symptoms more regularly. There is no cure for asthma, but you can manage its symptoms with proper treatment and medication.

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How to Treat Asthma

Asthma symptoms can disrupt your life, so it is important to treat it. Moreover, by managing your asthma symptoms, you can also reduce the chances of experiencing an asthma attack. Taking your medication as prescribed and avoiding your triggers can help keep you out of the emergency room and prevent the deterioration of lung function as you age. 

Talk to your SFENTA™ Aventura ear, nose, and throat specialist about the following treatments:

  • Treating your asthma with long-term control medications: Daily control medications can reduce your symptoms and help prevent asthma attacks so you can live a more comfortable life.
  • Using quick-relief medications for emergencies: Of course, it is still possible that an asthma attack may occur, so it is important to have quick-relief medications on hand to address them immediately. 
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How is Asthma Caused?

The precise cause of asthma is unknown, but some contributing factors may include pollution and genetics.

Other factors that can increase a patient’s chances of developing asthma include:

  • Allergies or allergy-related conditions
  • A history of asthma in a patient’s family
  • Exposure to smoking as a child
  • Exposure to certain toxins or chemicals at work
  • Being born prematurely

What Triggers Asthma Symptoms?

Although everyone’s condition varies regarding the severity and frequency of symptoms, many often experience similar triggers.

Some of the most common triggers of asthma symptoms include:

  • Dust mites
  • High stress
  • Exercise
  • Inclement Weather
  • Smoke and pollution
  • Feathers and animal fur
  • Infections

The Most Common Asthma Symptoms

  • Chest tightness or pain
  • Wheezing
  • Coughing
  • Nasal flaring
  • Trouble sleeping due to shortness of breath
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Asthma FAQs

Can I have pets if I have asthma?

Pets, such as dogs and cats, have many of the most common asthma triggers. Their fur, dander, saliva, and even their urine can all trigger symptoms and, in severe cases, cause an asthma attack. The most effective way to control your asthma is to avoid animals that may trigger your symptoms. Ask your SFENTA™ Aventura ear, nose, and throat specialist more about this.

How can I find out if I have asthma?

To diagnose a patient with asthma, pulmonary function tests are typically administered. These tests include a variety of breathing tests, which are usually performed by blowing into a tube while seated.

Why are asthma symptoms worse at night?

It is not uncommon for asthma sufferers to experience worsened symptoms at night. There are a variety of factors that could potentially contribute to this, including how you sleep and the temperature of your room. When you sleep on your back, this puts more pressure on your chest and lungs, making it challenging to breathe. Consider consulting with our SFENTA™ office in Aventura for the care you need to address your symptoms.

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