SERVICES
Asthma
When asthma isn’t under control, unexpected flare-ups can make breathing difficult and upend your plans. Led by Dr. Nichola Patton, DNP, MSN, MBA, AGACNP-BC, and Angel Cejo Vaquer, NP, NP Healthcare Group offers same-day telehealth appointments to address asthma and prevent worsening symptoms. To receive ongoing support, discuss symptoms, and manage your treatment from home, schedule your visit online or call the office today.
Asthma FAQ's
What is asthma, and what causes it?
During an asthma flare-up, the muscles surrounding your airways can tighten, the airway lining can swell, and your mucus production may increase. Together, these changes can restrict airflow and make it difficult to breathe.
Asthma can develop at any age, and contributing factors include:
- Genetics
- Allergies
- Respiratory infections
- Pollen
- Dust mites
- Pet dander
- Mold
- Smoke
- Air pollution
- Cold air
- Exercise
Triggers vary from person to person, and you can also have asthma without a clearly identifiable trigger.
What are the common symptoms of asthma?
Asthma symptoms can occur occasionally or more frequently if your asthma isn’t well-controlled. Common ones include:
- Wheezing
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
Keeping track of when symptoms occur and what may have triggered them can help your NP Healthcare Group provider develop an appropriate management plan.
Keep in mind, if you experience severe breathing problems, rapidly worsening symptoms, difficulty speaking because of shortness of breath, or symptoms that don’t respond to your prescribed rescue medication, you should seek urgent medical attention.
What treatments can help control asthma?
Telehealth for asthma makes your ongoing care much more convenient and can help you avoid environmental triggers. During your virtual appointment, your NP Healthcare Group provider can review your symptoms, triggers, medical history, current medications, and how often you use your rescue inhaler.
Depending on your needs, your personalized plan may include quick-relief medications for acute symptoms and long-term controller medications to reduce airway inflammation and prevent flare-ups.
Your provider can discuss how and when to use prescribed medications, review your asthma action plan, and determine whether your treatment may need adjustment.
If your symptoms are severe, the diagnosis is uncertain, or you need lung testing or an in-person examination, your provider may recommend an in-person evaluation.
How can I prevent asthma flare-ups?
Preventing asthma flare-ups starts with identifying and reducing your personal triggers. As a good rule of thumb, start by avoiding tobacco smoke, managing allergies when appropriate, reducing exposure to known environmental triggers, and taking controller medication as prescribed.
Monitor your symptoms, and follow your asthma action plan. Keep prescribed rescue medication available, and make sure you understand when to use it and when to seek urgent care.
Regular virtual follow-ups with your NP Healthcare Group provider help you stay on top of your asthma management. Get started today by calling or booking online.