Around 1 in 13 Americans have asthma, a chronic condition that impacts the respiratory system. At the practice of Saba Shabnam, MD, FAAFP, in Grapevine, Texas, Dr. Shabnam can help manage your asthma symptoms with evidence-based treatments, such as inhalers. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about asthma.
Asthma is a chronic disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of the small airways in the lungs. The condition may also cause mucus buildup, and without treatment, it can restrict your breathing.
A combination of swelling, mucus production, and muscle tightening around the airways prevents air from flowing without obstruction.
Although asthma isn’t curable, it’s manageable with proper care. The experienced providers at the practice of Saba Shabnam, MD, FAAFP, can develop a care plan that helps manage your asthma symptoms and addresses sudden attacks.
Asthma can cause many respiratory symptoms, such as:
Some people only experience mild symptoms of asthma, while others need long-term treatment to manage the condition.
The exact cause of asthma is unclear, but factors that can trigger a flare-up include:
Acid reflux can also increase your risk of an asthma attack if you have the condition.
The providers at Saba Shabnam, MD, FAAFP, perform a comprehensive physical evaluation to determine the best treatment or combination of medications for you. Your provider may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as sleep, exercise, and stress reduction. Common medications your provider may recommend are:
Controller medications target the underlying cause of the mucus and swelling that may narrow your airways. You can take these medications regularly to prevent worsening asthma symptoms.
Quick-relief medications address your asthma symptoms right away to open your constricted airways. They’re meant for sudden symptoms, like shortness of breath.
Combination medications address chronic and sudden symptoms of asthma to help prevent and control attacks.
The most common delivery method for asthma medications in an inhaler. There are many types of inhalers, such as:
After an evaluation, your provider can recommend the best type of inhaler for you and may prescribe more than one form to address your symptoms.
Call Saba Shabnam, MD, FAAFP, today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about asthma.