Are you struggling with persistent coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath? These could be signs of asthma, a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions. At Premier Lung & Sleep Institute, we specialize in diagnosing and managing asthma to help you breathe easier and live a more active life. Our board-certified pulmonologists use the latest diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans to give you control over your condition.

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What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition in which your airways become inflamed and extra sensitive. When exposed to certain triggers, these airways can tighten and swell, making it difficult to breathe. This leads to the hallmark symptoms of asthma: wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. These symptoms often worsen at night or during exercise.

Common Triggers & Risk Factors

Understanding and avoiding your triggers is a key part of asthma management. Common triggers and risk factors include:

  • Allergies and viral infections: Pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and respiratory viruses.
  • Tobacco smoke and air pollution: Irritants that can inflame the airways.
  • Exercise, cold air, strong smells: Non-allergic triggers that can cause airway constriction.
  • Co-existing conditions: Acid reflux, sinus disease, or sleep apnea can worsen asthma symptoms.
  • Family history of asthma: A genetic predisposition to the condition.

Signs & Symptoms of Asthma

If you experience any of the following, it’s important to seek an evaluation from a lung specialist:

  • Persistent wheezing, a whistling or squeaky sound when breathing.
  • A chronic cough, often worse at night or early in the morning.
  • Feelings of chest tightness or pressure.
  • Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or with a cold.

How We Diagnose Asthma

Accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment. Our comprehensive diagnostic process includes:

  • Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): We use PFTs, including spirometry, to measure how well your lungs are working. This on-site test helps us confirm an asthma diagnosis and measure your level of control.
  • Evaluation for overlapping issues: We’ll assess for other conditions like reflux, sinus disease, or sleep apnea that may be contributing to your symptoms.

Personalized Asthma Treatment

Your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle. Our goal is to reduce your symptoms and prevent flare-ups so you can live without limitations. Treatment options include:

  • Daily maintenance inhalers: These medicines calm airway inflammation to keep symptoms in check.
  • As-needed reliever medicines: Also known as rescue inhalers, these provide quick relief for sudden symptoms.
  • Asthma Action Plan and inhaler-technique coaching: We provide you with a written plan and teach you how to use your inhalers correctly to maximize effectiveness.
  • Trigger control and vaccinations: Strategies to avoid allergens and irritants, plus recommendations for flu and pneumonia vaccines.
  • Biologic therapies: For patients with severe, persistent asthma, we may recommend cutting-edge biologic medications to target the underlying causes of inflammation.

Why Choose Premier Lung & Sleep Institute for Your Asthma Care?

  • On-site Diagnostics: We offer convenient, on-site Pulmonary Function Testing to streamline your diagnosis and monitoring.
  • Patient-Centered Approach: We take the time to listen to your story, understand your triggers, and create a plan that fits your life.
  • Advanced Therapies: We provide access to the latest treatments, including biologic therapies for severe asthma.
  • Comprehensive Care: We go beyond medicine to address co-existing conditions and provide coaching on breathing techniques and lifestyle changes.