Asthma can be a chronic or intermittent problem characterized by periods of no symptoms and times of flare-ups that can result in hospitalization or emergency room visits. It can disrupt your life by interfering with sleep, work, school, exercise, and other activities. Muscles tightening in the airways of the lungs can cause coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. The true underlying cause? Airway inflammation.
While inflammation is the route of the problem, some triggers can make symptoms worse and ultimately lead to an asthma attack. These include respiratory infections, cold air, allergens, pollution, smoke or vape fumes, and physical activity. Every person affected with asthma is different, so sensitivity levels vary. However, even those with mild to intermittent asthma can be prone to an attack if exposed to these triggers.
For years, treatment for asthma used to rely on bronchodilators like albuterol to ease symptoms at the first signs of an attack. If symptoms were frequent or severe, a preventative asthma medication was prescribed. Typically, these were inhaled corticosteroids that controlled airway inflammation and made recurrent symptoms less likely. These medications have a long-proven track record of relative safety and effectiveness. However, it could be confusing to remember which inhaler to use.
The newest asthma management guidelines, based on current evidence, have changed the treatment process dramatically. The use of an anti-inflammatory and reliever in combination with the same inhaler is now preferred for adult patients with asthma and can be used in most children as well. A single inhaler such as Symbicort, Dulera, Airsupra, or their equivalents is now used for both fast relief of asthma attack symptoms and also benefits as a daily medication to prevent recurrent symptoms. This treatment option is simpler and more effective in preventing asthma flare-ups.
It is important to meet with your trusted clinician regularly to discuss your or your child’s treatment plan. If you believe you or your loved one could benefit from trying this new course of treatment, mention it to your prescribing physician!
Allied Physicians Group is a partnership of more than 150 dedicated, caring physicians and 350 highly trained support staff. We offer pediatric care, family medicine, and other specialties at our practice locations. Allied Physicians Group has office locations in Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland, and Orange Counties. If you are looking for a physician near you click here, or for more information, please visit: https://alliedphysiciansgroup.com.