If you struggle to get a full breath of air, especially during physical activity, it could be because of asthma. At California Coast Family Practice in Atascadero, California, adult medicine specialist Cameron Grant, DNP, FNP, MPH, MSN, and his exceptional staff offer highly effective asthma treatments to help you breathe easier. Call the office to schedule an appointment or book one online today.
Asthma is an ongoing condition that affects your breathing. It causes your airways to swell, narrow, and often produce extra mucus, making breathing more difficult. Asthma often accompanies seasonal allergies and can cause extreme breathing problems in some cases. See the California Coast Family Practice specialists at the first sign of breathing challenges.
Common symptoms you could experience if you have asthma include:
These symptoms often worsen during exercise, when you have an illness, or during seasonal allergy flare-ups. Severe cases of asthma can be crippling or even life-threatening when left untreated.
The cause of asthma isn’t entirely clear, but the following factors may increase your risk of having it:
Asthma could develop because of a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
To find out if you have asthma or how severe it is, California Coast Family Medicine experts discuss your symptoms and medical history with you. They check your vital signs, assess your breathing, and complete a physical exam.
California Coast Family Medicine experts use lung-function (breathing) tests to evaluate your ability to take a full breath of air before and after using an inhaler.
Common treatments for asthma include:
Things you can do at home to alleviate breathing problems include using an air conditioner to reduce airborne allergens, keeping your home clean, and using a dehumidifier if needed.
Using an inhaler is one of the most common treatments for asthma. Many people use inhalers during physical activity or as needed to help them breathe easier.
Treating allergies can reduce allergy-induced asthma symptoms. Examples of common allergy treatments include oral medications, nasal sprays, and allergy shots.
To learn more about asthma and find out if you have it, call the California Coast Family Practice office or book a visit online today.
