Asthma is a chronic lung disease that often is discovered during childhood. However, it is possible to develop asthma as a teenager or adult. This respiratory ailment reduces lung function and makes it difficult to breathe because of the airways narrow, reducing the flow of air into the lungs. While having an asthma attack, your lungs may produce excessive amounts of mucus, making it more difficult to breathe. If you have a cold or influenza, then having an asthma attack as a side effect is a common occurrence. For some individuals, the exposure to airborne pollutants such as pollen, pet dander, or cigarette smoke can also lead to an asthma attack. Many who experience asthma symptoms need to seek medical therapy to manage their asthma symptoms and reduce the chances of severe asthma exacerbations.
What Can Cause an Asthma Attack?
In addition to difficulty breathing, you may experience chest pain, intense coughing, or wheezing with an asthma attack. There are several situations where you are more likely to have problems breathing, including:
- Exposure to insect contamination or mold spores
- Engaging in strenuous activities
- Exposure to dry or cold air
- Allergies to fragrances or other substances in the air
- Exposure to dust or fumes in the workplace
- Air pollution, such as tobacco smoke or other environmental factors
Acute asthma exacerbations are often not serious and can often be treated at home with an inhaler. However, severe asthma exacerbations might require prompt medical intervention, whether at urgent care or an emergency department facility. If you are experiencing a severe asthma attack, make sure to seek a medical facility immediately.
What Are the Different Types of Asthma?
There are a variety of different types of asthma, each with different risk factors. These include:
- Occupational
- Nonallergic
- Exercise-induced
- Caused by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Allergy induced
Some people only experience acute exacerbations while others are likely to experience more severe exacerbations. Asthma education and prevention are key to preserving lung function and preventing symptoms.
What Are the Treatments for Asthma Exacerbation?
A physician at WellCare Urgent Care in Grand Rapids can determine if you have asthma with a physical examination that includes listening to your lungs while you try to breathe. You may need an x-ray to determine if there is an underlying condition such as pneumonia or bronchitis in your lungs. It is important to learn what triggers your asthma to avoid attacks that can lead to emergency situations.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for asthma. However, treatment of acute asthma exacerbations can include:
- Adding moisture to the air with a humidifier
- Asthma control using air purification devices
- Keeping a home clean to avoid exposure to irritants
- Avoiding places where people smoke or wear perfume
- Using oxygen therapy at home
- Taking anti-inflammatory medications
- Using inhaled corticosteroids
- Taking allergy medications
The medical providers at WellCare Urgent Care can discuss asthma management steps to prevent acute exacerbations. Effective asthma treatment may require multiple steps and lifestyle changes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Asthma
Is there a cure for asthma?How can I prevent an asthma attack?What are possible triggers for an asthma attack?When should I see help with an asthma attack?Can you outgrow asthma? |
Asthma Treatment at WellCare Urgent Care
If you or your child has asthma, then you know to begin treatment at home right away when a breathing attack occurs. However, when an individual is experiencing severe respiratory distress, emergency interventions are necessary. To learn more about asthma and what triggers your attacks, meet with our team at WellCare Urgent Care. We accept walk-ins at our Cascade and Leonard locations, or you can schedule a same-day appointment online.
