About Asthma

Asthma is a chronic lung condition that cannot be cured. Some of the most common symptoms include chest tightness, trouble breathing, and wheezing. Although asthma cannot be cured, its symptoms can effectively be managed through long-term control medications. Moreover, asthma often changes over time, and, in some cases, children who develop asthma may see a reduction in symptoms in later years. Following your treatment plan is the best way to ensure your condition does not worsen. Our asthma doctors in Fort Lauderdale can help.

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Treat and Control Your Asthma

To get your asthma under control and decrease your chances of experiencing an asthma attack, it is crucial to identify your triggers and take your prescribed asthma medications. 
Talk to your SFENTA™ Fort Lauderdale ear, nose, and throat specialist about prescribing the following:

  • Long-term control medications:  These types of medications are generally taken daily and can help prevent asthma attacks from occurring. They can also decrease the swelling in your airways, reducing your symptoms and making breathing easier. 
  • Quick-relief medications: Unlike long-term control medications, quick-relief medications are only taken when necessary. If you are experiencing the symptoms of an asthma attack, taking a quick-relief medication can ease your symptoms and immediately relax your airways.
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Understanding the Causes of Asthma

The cause of asthma is still unknown. That said, researchers believe there is a variety of contributing factors that may increase the likelihood of a patient developing asthma. 

Some of the most common factors that may contribute to the development of asthma include:

  • Your family has a history of asthma 
  • You suffered from a viral respiratory infection as a child
  • You are a smoker, or you were exposed to secondhand smoke
  • You suffer from an allergic condition
  • You grew up in an urban area with higher levels of air pollution

Knowing What Triggers Your Asthma

Every patient’s triggers may vary, but some are more common than others and should be avoided to reduce the likelihood of an asthma attack.

Common asthma triggers: 

  • Cigarette smoke
  • Dust mites
  • Air pollution, including wildfire smoke
  • Pests, such as mice and cockroaches
  • Mold 

Common Symptoms of Asthma

  • Chest pain or tightness
  • Wheezing
  • Coughing attacks
  • Shortness of breath

Asthma FAQs

Why do I have to take medication every day?

Long-term control medications work over time to not only reduce the swelling in your lungs, but to also reduce sensitivity, so they are less reactive to certain triggers. These types of medications can only be effective when you take them as prescribed. Otherwise, they will not manage your symptoms as well as they should.

Do pain medications trigger asthma symptoms?

Aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications can potentially be major asthma triggers, so it is best to avoid them. Consider acetaminophen as a safer alternative to treat your pain.

At what age does asthma develop?

Asthma can develop at any age. However, half of all people who have this condition experience their first symptoms as children and many have their first attack before the age of 6. Our SFENTA™ office in Fort Lauderdale treats children and can create an effective plan to manage their symptoms.

Contact South Florida ENT Associates To Help With Your Asthma Treatment

If you are seeking asthma treatment, our board-certified otolaryngologists and ENTs in Fort Lauderdale at South Florida ENT Associates can help. Reach out to our office today to get started and find out how our asthma doctors in Fort Lauderdale can help.

With 37 convenient locations across the South Florida area, we’re never far away.

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