Asthma | Pulse-MD Urgent Care

Asthma is a chronic medical condition that affects the respiratory system. It causes the walls of your airways to be very sensitive. An asthma attack can be triggered by a variety of things, including allergic reactions, the common cold, smoke, hot or cold air, exercise, or stress.

Symptoms

Coughing
Wheezing
Chest tightness
Shortness of breath

Who is at risk?

Asthma can affect anyone. It usually, but not always, begins in childhood. Certain things increase risk, such as:

Family history of asthma
Extreme weather (hot or cold)
Poor air quality (as is often found in urban environments)
A stressful environment

Treatment

Medications are available to control asthma over the long-term, as well as to provide quick-relief in the case of an attack. As asthma is a chronic (long-term) condition, once diagnosed you should maintain a relationship with a heath care provider. In addition to using appropriate medication, it is important to learn about the things that trigger your asthma in order to prevent attacks.

When should I see a doctor?

If you think you or your child is suffering from asthma, see a doctor. Once diagnosed, you should continue to visit your doctor on a regular bases. Furthermore, if symptoms worsen or if you experience a particularly bad attack, you should see a doctor as soon as possible.

Treatment and care is available now at Pulse-MD Urgent Care in Wappingers Falls, Mahopac, Mohegan Lake, Thornwood, and Poughkeepsie, NY.

For more information on Asthma, see the following websites:

Adult Asthma information from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

Childhood Asthma information from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Medline Plus (NIH)

Asthma page Student Asthma Action Card from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

Disclaimer: The links above are to sites independent of pulsemdurgentcare.com. The pages will open in a new browser window. The information provided is for educational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem, you should consult your doctor. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding your specific medical questions, treatments, therapies, and other needs.