Asthma Management | Frisco, TX

Wheezing, shortness of breath, and tightness in the chest are all signs and symptoms of an asthma attack. Asthma is a common and chronic respiratory condition characterized by swelling and inflammation in the lungs that make it difficult for a person to breathe. The condition can be exercise-induced or develop from exposure to environmental allergens and can be a significant health concern. As a seasoned family nurse practitioner, Katherine Johnson is experienced in diagnosing and treating asthma. If you have signs or symptoms of asthma, or need assistance with managing this condition, please schedule a visit with Katherine at Johnson Family Medical in Frisco, TX.

Since a number of factors can trigger asthma, Katherine will review your medical history and may recommend diagnostic services, such as labs or lung function tests. She can then discuss treatment options to meet your unique needs. Asthma treatments may be necessary on an as-needed or routine basis and could include the use of an inhaler and oral medications. Other recommendations may include dietary changes, breathing exercises, and avoiding factors that lead to asthma symptoms. Ultimately, the goal of asthma treatment and management is to prevent flare-ups and help you breathe with ease.

What are the different kinds of asthma?

There are many types of asthma with a variety of causes. Here are the most common types of asthma:

• Chronic asthma - A condition marked by consistent daily symptoms or occurrences several times a week. Occurrences can vary in severity and be caused by different triggers, including allergens, viral pathogens, and others.
• Intermittent asthma - If you go for long asthma-free periods between asthma attacks, it may be intermittent asthma. Often caused by the common cold, this type of asthma is common in younger children (2 - 5) who may get frequent viral colds throughout the year.
• Seasonal allergic asthma - Caused by the seasonal release of pollens and other allergens.
• Non-seasonal allergic asthma - Similar to seasonal asthma, but caused by other environmental allergens like dust, pet dander, foods, pollutants, irritants, etc.
• Adult-onset asthma - The majority of asthma cases start in childhood, but for some, asthma will present in adulthood. The causes are varied and specific to each individual, whether caused by pet dander, irritants, pollution, pollen, etc.
• Occupational asthma - Some people will develop asthma as a result of being exposed to irritants in the workplace such as chemicals, smoke, dust, etc.
• Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) - Heavy exercise can cause a restriction of the airways and is often found in 80% of people with asthma. It is believed to be caused by dehydration, a heating up of the body, and exposure to irritants in some sports such as chlorine in pools, pollen while jogging, dry air in the winter, etc.

Does asthma go away?

Often, children with asthma will grow out of it into adulthood. However, childhood asthma can temporarily go away and then return months or even years later. For children with severe asthma, they may never outgrow it. For adults with asthma caused by allergies or environmental irritants, regular management of exposure and symptoms is key.

How do I know if I have asthma?

Only a doctor can determine if you have asthma, but here are a few common symptoms of asthma you can be aware of:

• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty breathing
• A feeling of tightness or pain in the chest
• Coughing and/or wheezing that get worse with a cold or flu
• Wheezing when exhaling (common in children’s asthma)
• Sleep problems caused by coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath

If you have any of these symptoms, Johnson Family Medical center can examine you to see if your breathing problems may be caused by asthma.

What can be mistaken for asthma?

Shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing aren’t always a sign of asthma. Allergies, colds and flu, hyperventilation, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, vocal cord dysfunction, and more can be mistaken for asthma.

What are ways I can manage my asthma?

1. Regularly take your asthma medication as prescribed.
2. Know your asthma triggers and avoid them if possible
3. Know how to properly use an inhaler
4. Exercise regularly to stay healthy.
5. Get enough sleep
6. Quit smoking and/or avoid second-hand smoke
7. Avoid colds and the flu by practicing good hand hygiene, taking the flu shot if advised by your doctor, be aware of symptoms of viral infections.

Professional care for asthma can help you avoid asthma triggers and manage this condition. If asthma is affecting your health, we encourage you to contact Johnson Family Medical to schedule an in-person or a telehealth visit with Katherine. Our caring team can provide information on the insurances and Medicare plans we accept and help you find a convenient time for your appointment. We are proud to be providers of trusted asthma care in Frisco, TX!