Asthma
Overview
The lungs are the organs that help us breathe by taking in oxygen and removing carbon dioxide. Asthma is a common lung disease that makes it hard to breathe because the airways become swollen and narrow. The most common type is allergic asthma, which happens when someone reacts to things like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. Non-allergic asthma, another form of the condition, is triggered by factors like stress, exercise, cold air, or infections.
Our approach
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty breathing. Symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing or a whistling sound when exhaling
- Chest tightness or pain
- Chronic coughing, especially at night or early morning
These symptoms can vary in frequency and severity, affecting both children and adults.
Diagnosis
Healthcare professionals diagnose asthma through a series of evaluations:
- Medical History and Symptom Inquiry: Gathering detailed information about breathing problems, triggers, and any family history of asthma or allergies.
- Physical Examination: Assessing the respiratory system for signs of asthma.
- Lung Function Tests:
- Spirometry: Measures the amount (volume) and speed (flow) of air that can be inhaled and exhaled.
- Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF): Evaluates how quickly air can be expelled from the lungs.
- Allergy Testing: Identifies potential allergens that may trigger asthma symptoms.
- Bronchoprovocation Test: Assesses airway sensitivity by measuring lung function before and after exposure to specific substances or physical activity.
Providers for Asthma
View All ProvidersLocations for Asthma
M Health Fairview Clinics and Specialty Center - Princeton
M Health Fairview Clinics and Surgery Center - Minneapolis
M Health Fairview Cancer Center - Burnsville
M Health Fairview Clinics and Surgery Center - Maple Grove
Treatments for Asthma
Treatment plans are personalized and involve a combination of:
- Medications:
- Quick-Relief Inhalers (Bronchodilators): Medications like albuterol to relax airway muscles during an asthma attack.
- Long-Term Control Medications:
- Inhaled corticosteroids such as fluticasone or budesonide to reduce airway inflammation.
- Long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) combined with corticosteroids for improved control.
- Leukotriene modifiers like montelukast to block inflammatory chemicals.
- Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and minimizing exposure to allergens or irritants such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, smoke, and pollution.
- Asthma Action Plan: Developing a personalized plan with a healthcare provider to monitor symptoms, manage attacks, and adjust treatments.
- Regular Monitoring: Scheduling follow-up visits to assess asthma control and modify medications as needed.
- Education: Learning proper inhaler techniques and understanding the purpose of each medication.
This comprehensive approach addresses both the management of acute symptoms and long-term control, aiming to reduce flare-ups, improve lung function, and enhance the individual's quality of life.
