We offer treatment for asthma at The Urgent Care at Vermont. Asthma is a long-term condition that causes inflammation and swelling of the airways. It is one of the most common and costly diseases in the United States, affecting about 25 million people (1 in 13 in the country). It is a leading childhood chronic disease, and while it is more common among women than men, boys are more likely to have it than girls. 11 people in the US die from asthma every day.
Asthma Symptoms
Common symptoms of asthma include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness or pain
- Wheezing when exhaling, especially in pediatric cases
- Difficulty sleeping due to shortness of breath, coughing, or wheezing
- Attacks of coughing or wheezing worsened by a respiratory virus like a cold, the flu, or COVID-19
Risk Factors for Asthma
The largest risk factor for asthma is a family history of the condition. Being a smoker or regularly exposed to secondhand smoke also makes asthma more likely, as does frequent exposure to exhaust fumes, pollution, or the chemicals used in farming, hairdressing, or manufacturing.
As to why boys are more likely to have asthma than girls but women are more likely to have asthma than men, a popular theory is that it relates to testosterone levels, as testosterone decreases the swelling of airways in asthma.
Common Asthma Triggers
A variety of things can cause asthma symptoms to flare up, sometimes to the level of a dangerous asthma attack:
- Allergens. Animal dander, pollen, molds, dust mites, and some foods can trigger asthma symptoms in someone allergic to them. Try to minimize your exposure to known allergens.
- Emotional Stress. Laughing and crying can trigger symptoms, and family or work stress could as well. Try to remain calm and relaxed and take deep breaths.
- Exercise. Exercise can bring on symptoms but is good for your lungs, so don’t avoid exercising but don’t overdo it, and keep your inhaler on hand.
- Airborne Irritants. Tobacco and other irritants can cause asthma symptoms. Quit smoking if you do and don’t allow others to smoke in your home or car. Keep track of pollution alerts and use central AC instead of a swamp cooler. Avoid perfumes and scented products, and consider a HEPA filter for your home.
- Medications. Medications like beta blockers or aspirin may cause asthma symptoms, so consult us before taking them.
- Respiratory Infections. Illnesses that affect the respiratory system can make asthma flare up. Stay current on your vaccinations, get plenty of rest, and wash your hands often.
- Sleep. Nocturnal asthma can be brought on by allergens in the bedroom, a drop in body temperature, or GERD. Talk to us about managing nocturnal asthma.
- Weather. Dry climates or a sudden change in temperature and humidity could be a trigger. Dress appropriately and stay well hydrated, breathing through the nose when possible.
When Should I Go to The Urgent Care at Vermont?
Our clinic is the right place to go in the following primary care and urgent care situations:
- If you think you have asthma. If you’re experiencing frequent coughing or wheezing lasting more than a few days or are showing other symptoms of asthma, come see us. Early diagnosis and treatment may prevent long-term damage to your lungs and make it possible to stop the condition from getting worse.
- To monitor asthma after diagnosis. If you already know you have asthma, you can work with us to keep it under control. Long-term control will help you feel better day to day and even prevent a life-threatening asthma attack.
- If your symptoms get worse. You should contact us right away if your medication doesn’t seem to be easing your symptoms or if you find yourself using your quick-relief inhaler more and more often. Always consult us before taking more medication than prescribed.
- To review treatment. This condition tends to change over time. It’s a good idea to meet with us regularly to discuss your symptoms and make adjustments to treatment.
When Should I Go to the ER?
Nearly all deaths from asthma could be avoided with the proper treatment and care. In the middle of a dangerous asthma attack, that means going to the ER, not visiting an urgent care clinic. However, your case may not be prioritized if you want medical help with your asthma outside of an attack, and that’s when urgent care is the better choice.
Treating and Managing Asthma
We can help you identify your triggers and provide treatment options. Asthma may go away or improve if it first appears in childhood or adolescence, but an adult who develops asthma is likely to continue having symptoms for life. We’re here to help.