Struggling for Air: Essential Insights on Asthma

AsthmaBy Mary Curtis, Respiratory Therapy Manager

 

May 5th marked World Asthma Day, an excellent opportunity to raise awareness about asthma! At Clearwater Valley Health, we have recently upgraded our pulmonary function machine to a cutting-edge system from Jaeger called the Vyntus Body Plethysmograph. After a week of training with the technician, we are fully equipped to help diagnose asthma, COPD, and other lung conditions.

Here are some important points to consider:

  • Not all wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing) is asthma.
  • There are various types of asthma, each requiring different treatments.
  • Pulmonary Function Testing is the only definitive method to diagnose asthma and COPD.
  • Using your inhaler 30 minutes before exercise or known triggers can reduce the severity of shortness of breath.
  • Failing to treat asthma symptoms can permanently alter your airway anatomy.
  • Incorrect inhaler use may result in not receiving the full benefits.
  • All asthma patients should have an Asthma Action Plan and a Peak Flow Meter.
  • A patient’s peak flows may decrease before they show symptoms of a cold.
  • All allergic asthma patients should maintain a “clean space” in their home, such as a bedroom with minimized allergens. This includes reducing dust and opting for blinds over curtains, which are easier to clean.
  • Not all allergies are asthma.
  • Asthma symptoms may be as simple as a persistent cough.

Need assistance with asthma control, have questions, or require a pulmonary function test? Consult your primary care provider about scheduling a meeting with me! I have been a Certified Asthma Educator for 14 years and Certified in Pulmonary Function Testing for 9 years, both of which require additional training and testing. We look forward to seeing you soon and help you breathe easy!