What causes asthma?
Asthma is a chronic disease that’s characterized by inflammation in the airways of the lungs. Some people develop the condition in childhood, while others start experiencing symptoms of asthma as adults.
While there might be a genetic component to asthma, it has some common triggers, including:
- Overexertion during exercise (called exercise-induced asthma)
- Exposure to pet dander, pollen, fumes, dust, or gases
- A flare-up of allergies
- A respiratory condition, like a cold or cough
There’s technically no cure for asthma, but it’s easy to manage with the right medical care and education.
What are the symptoms of asthma?
If you have asthma, you might experience a number of symptoms that make breathing difficult. These include wheezing, coughing, tightness in the chest, or a hissing sound when breathing.
Symptoms of asthma can worsen if you’re exercising hard, exposed to an environmental trigger, or are under a lot of stress. Getting uninterrupted sleep is also a challenge with asthma, as you might frequently wake from coughing or difficulty breathing.
How is asthma treated?
You can control symptoms of asthma and lead a normal life with the right medical care. If you’re having difficulty breathing, the Huntington Beach Urgent Care team can offer a range of treatments, including:
Inhaled corticosteroids
These are anti-inflammatory drugs that are considered the most effective long-term treatment for asthma. They are safe and generally have a low risk of side effects.
Combination inhalers
Medications that contain a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) in addition to corticosteroids are called combination inhalers. These help open the airways, but can increase the risk of asthma attacks in some people.
Oral medications
These help to relieve asthma symptoms for up to 24 hours and can address severe symptoms.
Managing asthma also involves identifying and avoiding your triggers. It’s good to always be prepared for an asthma attack and carry an inhaler or medication if you know you have the condition.
If you’re having symptoms of asthma, Dr. Schwartz can help you manage your immediate symptoms with the right medication. To get a same-day appointment at Huntington Beach Urgent Care, call the office or use the one-click booking tool online.
