Do you experience difficulty breathing due to pollen, dust or smoke? You most probably have asthma.
Asthma is a chronic medical condition. You need continuous care to manage this condition. Dr. Ataul H Chowdhury is an experienced physician in asthma management. He will tell you how primary care providers can help you manage this medical condition.
Understanding Asthma
Asthma is a lung disease. It is a long term medical condition. You cannot cure it completely. However, you can keep it under control through proper medical management. Usually you may experience breathing difficulty during an asthma attack. This can happen because of the excess development of mucus in your lungs. It can also happen if inflammation occurs in your breathing system.
Symptoms
Everybody with this disease does not experience the same symptoms. Some common signs are
- Shortness of breath
- Tightness in the chest or pain
- Wheezing while exhaling
- Increased Mucus Production
- Sleeping difficulties due to coughing, wheezing or shortness of breath
What Triggers Asthma?
Common factors that can trigger your asthma attack are:
- Lung infection
- Smoke
- Cold air
- Physical exercise
- Mold, pest & pet dander
- Excessive emotional stress
- Allergenic particles in the air
- Certain medications
How Does Primary Care Help You Manage Asthma?
The following are the ways a primary care clinic can help you manage your conditions:
Early Diagnosis and Regular Monitoring
You should contact primary care physicians first when you experience respiratory symptoms. We perform initial assessments to diagnose your asthma early as part of primary care treatment. We review your medical history in detail and conduct physical exams. We help you prevent future complications through our early diagnosis. Our physicians at the primary care center regularly monitor your lung function after diagnosing your condition. We also check your symptoms and the effect of medication on your progress. We adjust your treatment plan if needed.
Creating Personalized Asthma Action Plans
We create personalized asthma treatment plans that can help to manage your asthma conditions successfully. We consider your medical history, lifestyle and triggering factors. We help you recognize early signs of an asthma attack. We help you manage the symptoms as well. We also guide when to seek emergency care. You can keep your asthma condition under control if you follow our advice properly.
Medication Management
We prescribe you long term medications and quick relief inhalers to control your condition. We assess the severity of your symptoms. Based on our analysis, we determine your effective medication dosage. We teach you how to use inhalers and other devices correctly. This way we ensure you take your medications properly. We also monitor your current health status through regular follow ups. We adjust your medication if we find it necessary. This way we control your symptoms and minimize side effects.
Coordinating Care with Specialists
You may need treatment from specialists if your condition becomes complicated. We refer you to a pulmonologist or allergist based on your condition. Our referral service ensures you receive comprehensive care. This approach allows the specialists to manage your specific conditions effectively.
Preventive Care and Lifestyle Counseling
We offer preventive care to control your symptoms. You can develop this disease because of an infection in your lungs. We provide you with flu shots. This vaccine can help you prevent lung infections. We also give you lifestyle counseling on diet, exercise and stress management. Our suggestions will help you manage the trigger factors of this disease.
Utilizing Technology for Better Management
We have telehealth service to help you manage your condition. You can take virtual consultations for your regular checkups. You don’t have to visit the clinic for it. You can also stay connected with us and share your concerns. We recommend digital tools to store your medical information. You can track your symptoms, medication and triggers. You can share that information during your appointment to help us make the right decision for your condition.
Schedule Your Appointment
Are you struggling with asthma? NYCDocs is here to manage your condition. We offer comprehensive asthma management in Bronx, NY. Our board certified physician provides personalized care to help you manage the disease and its triggers effectively. We have female doctors to ensure the comfort of our female patients. We also have Spanish-speaking staff for clear communication with our Spanish patients. Our flexible consultation opportunities include online appointments, walk-in visits, and telehealth services to suit your schedule and needs. Book your appointment today for better asthma management and improved quality of life.
FAQs
How do you diagnose this condition?
We diagnose asthma through physical examination and lung function tests. We also consider your symptoms and response to asthma medications to diagnose your condition.
How can I manage my asthma effectively?
You can manage your condition by taking your prescribed medications and maintaining our guidelines. You will also have to avoid your triggering factors. You should monitor your symptoms and visit us regularly.
What should I do if I have an asthma attack?
We prescribe you an inhaler for quick relief. You should use it if you have an attack. Sometimes your condition may not improve. You should seek emergency medical attention that time.
Can I develop asthma at any age?
You can develop this disease at any age. Usually you can experience the symptoms in childhood. But you can get the symptoms for the first time in your adulthood too.
If I forget to take my medication on time, what should I do?
We give you instructions for your missed doses during your appointment. Generally you should take the medicine if you remember not taking it. However, you should not take the missed one if it is almost time for your next dose.
Can smoking affect asthma?
Yes. Smoking can make your symptoms worse. It can also make your treatment less effective. You have to quit smoking if you want to manage your conditions properly.
Can stress and anxiety impact asthma?
Stress and anxiety can trigger your condition. You should practice stress management techniques to relax your mind. You can take therapy and counseling to reduce your anxiety.
Should I take precautions during allergy season?
You should keep your windows closed during allergy season. You can also use air purifiers to maintain air quality around you. You should also wear a mask when you are outside. Allergy medications can help you as well.
