What is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects your respiratory system, namely the ability of your bronchial passages to transfer air. The inflamed and narrowed airways that are the hallmark of asthma hamper your ability to breathe correctly in the fact of certain triggers.
In addition to the inflammation, asthma also causes excess production of mucus in your airways, which further inhibits your breathing.
What Causes Asthma?
First, it’s important to note that there’s no known cause of asthma. The medical community does, however, believe that genetics, allergies, and environment play substantial roles in the development of the condition.
Asthma is characterized by attacks, which can be triggered by any number of things, including:
- Cold weather
- Allergens
- Exercise
- Certain foods
- Food additives
- Heartburn
- Smoking
- Pre-existing respiratory problems
While this list isn’t comprehensive, it does highlight the main offenders.
What are the Symptoms of Asthma?
The most common symptoms of asthma include:
- Wheezing
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
While some of these symptoms may be constant, most are brought on by an attack, or at least increase significantly during an attack.
How is Asthma Treated?
Since asthma has no known cause, there’s no cure for the condition. Asthma and its symptoms, therefore, are managed, often with great success, with the following:
- Long-term and Spot Medications: For long-term management, Dr. Guibord turns to daily oral medications designed to reduce the inflammation in your airways, usually with steroids. Dr. Guibord also equips you with a bronchodilator, or rescue inhaler, to help relax the muscles in your throat to loosen your airways during an attack.
- Trigger Avoidance: Dr. Guibord works with each patient to get to the bottom of what’s triggering their asthma, making it easier to develop a plan to avoid these triggers.
- Lifestyle Recommendations: Dr. Guibord works with you to develop exercise and nutrition habits that stave off asthma attacks. She may also recommend some lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking.
Each case of asthma is different, so Dr. Guibord provides a tailored plan that makes the most sense for your goals and needs. To learn more, call Dr. Guibord or book an appointment online.
