Conditions

ASTHMA

Do I have asthma?

Asthma is a chronic airway condition in which the bronchial tubes narrow and swell, making airflow through these airways difficult. Asthma also causes the production of mucus in these airways when triggers are encountered, leading to coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. This is known as an asthma attack.

How does one develop asthma?

It is unknown what causes it to develop, but genetics and environmental factors are thought to be contributing factors to its development. Those who have hay fever, smoke and are exposed to fumes and pollution are more likely to develop asthma.

Treatment options

After gaining valuable information about your airways and lungs during a lung function test and an allergy test, Dr Roos may diagnose you with asthma. To manage asthma attacks, Dr Roos will first need to identify what triggers the attacks. Once she can determine what causes your asthma attacks, she can assist you in avoiding these triggers and how best to handle future attacks. Medications may be prescribed to reduce the inflammation in your airways that lead to attacks. If triggers are allergens, allergy medications may be necessary. Furthermore, your physician will provide you with a quick-relief inhaler (bronchodilator) for future asthma attacks.

Since asthma changes over time, some children may no longer experience asthma symptoms as they get older, and their lungs grow, while others may have asthma symptoms come and go throughout their life.