Asthma

If you have asthma, you must have a trusted, knowledgeable provider who can offer holistic care and long-term support. Constantine K. Saadeh, MD, FAAAAI, FACP, FACR, and the practitioners at Allergy A.R.T.S. in Amarillo, Texas, diagnose, treat, and manage your chronic asthma with compassion and expertise. Call the office or schedule an appointment online for a personalized care plan.

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition that affects around one in 13 adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). This disease affects the lining of the airways, causing swelling, increased mucus secretions, airway muscle constriction, and restricted airflow.

When you have asthma, the body overreacts to specific triggers unique to each person.

Common triggers include:

• Extreme temperatures
• High humidity
• Food or environmental allergies
• Exercise or physical exertion
• Stress or severe anxiety
• Air pollutants or irritants, such as smoke
• Dust mites, pollen, or pet dander
• Strong scents or perfumes
  
  

A sudden onset of asthma symptoms is called an asthma attack, which can range from mild to life-threatening. If you have asthma, having ongoing support is essential as your symptoms may change over time, and your treatment plan may need to be adjusted.

Asthma also increases your risk for respiratory infections, sinusitis, and other conditions requiring close monitoring to prevent serious complications. 

What are the symptoms of asthma?

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (AAAAI), the most common symptom of an asthma attack is wheezing, a high-pitched whistling or scratchy sound when you breathe.

Other symptoms include:

• Chest pain or tightness
• Chronic dry cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Sleep disturbances due to coughing or wheezing
  

If you frequently have these symptoms, you may have asthma. If your symptoms worsen or your asthma attacks are more frequent, you should see the Allergy A.R.T.S. team as soon as possible.

What are the treatments for asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition that can’t be cured, but you can control your symptoms with proper management. With expert care, you can avoid severe asthma attacks. 

The team uses a holistic, integrative approach to asthma care. An integrated approach involves identifying underlying causes or factors that may worsen your symptoms. Treatments focus on supporting every aspect of your health to improve control over your asthma. Treatments may include:

• Allergy testing and shots
• Trigger avoidance plan
• Stress management
• Medication support, including inhalers
• Nutritional supplements
• Dietary restrictions and support
• Behavioral counseling
• Exercise and activity plan
• Smoking cessation
• Weight management
  
  

For comprehensive asthma management, see your provider regularly to monitor any changes in your symptoms or triggers. If needed, she makes changes to your treatment plan and closely follows your responses to treatments.

For ongoing, expert management of your asthma, call the office or schedule an appointment online with Allergy A.R.T.S. today.