Information About Asthma

Asthma patients may suffer from various symptoms, such as shortness of breath, coughing attacks, and wheezing, especially when exposed to specific triggers. Sometimes, these triggers may even result in a severe asthma attack that requires emergency medical attention. To manage your symptoms and lower the risk of experiencing an asthma attack, it is important to create a proper treatment plan. Our SFENTA™ office in West Palm Beach can provide the help you need.

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Effective Treatments for Asthma

There is no cure for asthma, but many effective treatments can help manage your asthma symptoms and keep them under control. Consult your SFENTA™ West Palm Beach ear, nose, and throat specialist on the best treatment plan.

Below are the two main types of medications you may be prescribed for your asthma:

Quick-relief medications: If you experience an asthma attack or worsening of your asthma symptoms, quick-relief medications can offer immediate relief, opening up your airways to make breathing easier. 
Long-term control medications: These types of medications are typically taken every day and work over a long period to reduce your symptoms and flare-ups and prevent asthma attacks from occurring.

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    What Causes Asthma to Develop? 


    The cause of asthma is still unclear, but many believe it may be the result of a variety of elements, including environmental factors and genetics. For example, if asthma runs in your family, you may also develop it.

    Additional factors that may play a role in the cause of asthma include:

    • Allergy-related conditions, including hay fever and eczema
    • Exposure to cigarette smoke or smoking
    • Being born at a low birth weight or premature birth
    • Air pollution
    • Lung infections, such as bronchiolitis 

    Understanding Your Asthma Triggers

    Every patient’s triggers vary, so it is important to understand what triggers explicitly your asthma symptoms in order to manage them.

    Common triggers of asthma symptoms include:

      • Animal fur, feathers, and pet dander
      • Mold or damp conditions
      • Heightened emotions, especially stress
      • Sudden shifts in temperature, wind, humidity, and extreme heat
      Doctor checking on a patient

      Recognizing Your Asthma Symptoms

      Asthma symptoms can differ from patient to patient. Recognizing and recording your symptoms can help create a proper treatment plan.

      • Breathlessness
      • Wheezing
      • Chest tightness
      • Coughing
      • Trouble sleeping caused by breathing problems

      Asthma FAQs

      What happens if I don’t treat my asthma?

      Poorly treated or untreated asthma can pose a serious risk to your well-being. Although the chances of death are relatively low, there is a higher risk that your lung function will gradually deteriorate with time, potentially resulting in disability as you age.

      Do I still need to take my long-term control medication if I feel fine?

      Asthma is a lifelong condition, but with effective treatment, you might not experience any symptoms. However, it is important to continue to take your long-term control medicine even when you feel well. If you stop taking your medication, your symptoms could potentially return.

      Should I get an air purifier?

      There is no definitive proof that air purifiers are effective, but it might still be worth a try to limit your exposure to asthma triggers. Make sure you keep all of the windows and doors closed in the room where you plan on using the air purifier to ensure the best results. For an effective asthma treatment plan, consult with our SFENTA™ office in West Palm Beach.

      With 37 convenient locations across the South Florida area, we’re never far away.

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