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Asthma

A child being comforted by a parent during a mild asthma episode.

Asthma is a chronic condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe. It affects both children and adults and can range from mild to severe. Although asthma has no cure, it can be managed effectively with the right treatment and avoidance of triggers.

Symptoms
Treatments
Services
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest tightness or pain
  • Wheezing (especially when exhaling)
  • Coughing, particularly at night or early morning
  • Difficulty breathing during exercise or in cold air
  • Quick-Relief Medications: Inhaled short-acting beta agonists (like albuterol) for immediate symptom relief
  • Long-Term Control Medications: Inhaled corticosteroids, leukotriene modifiers, or long-acting beta agonists
  • Biologics: For moderate to severe cases that don’t respond to standard medications
  • Lifestyle Adjustments: Allergen avoidance, regular checkups, asthma action plans
  • Allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander)
  • Respiratory infections
  • Air pollution or strong odors
  • Cold air or weather changes
  • Physical activity (exercise-induced asthma)
  • Stress or strong emotions
  • Smoking or secondhand smoke

Healthcare Providers

Symptoms

  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest tightness or pain
  • Wheezing (especially when exhaling)
  • Coughing, particularly at night or early morning
  • Difficulty breathing during exercise or in cold air

Causes

  • Allergens (pollen, dust mites, pet dander)
  • Respiratory infections
  • Air pollution or strong odors
  • Cold air or weather changes
  • Physical activity (exercise-induced asthma)
  • Stress or strong emotions
  • Smoking or secondhand smoke

Treatments

  • Quick-Relief Medications: Inhaled short-acting beta agonists (like albuterol) for immediate symptom relief
  • Long-Term Control Medications: Inhaled corticosteroids, leukotriene modifiers, or long-acting beta agonists
  • Biologics: For moderate to severe cases that don’t respond to standard medications
  • Lifestyle Adjustments: Allergen avoidance, regular checkups, asthma action plans

Specialties That Treat This Condition

Pulmonary Disease
Pulmonary Disease
Allergy & Immunology
Allergy & Immunology
Pediatrics
Pediatrics

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