Asthma
This page covers asthma — Asthma & Allergy Care, P.C. treats both adults and children across our New Jersey offices.
What Asthma Is
Asthma is a long-term condition in which the airways, the tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs, become inflamed and narrow. That makes breathing harder at times, especially when something irritates the airways further.
Asthma affects people differently. Some have symptoms only now and then, often brought on by a cold, exercise, or something in their environment. Others have symptoms more often. Either way, the underlying issue is the same: inflamed, narrowed airways that make breathing harder than it should be.
Asthma & Allergy Care, P.C. evaluates and treats asthma in adults and children across our New Jersey offices.
Symptoms to Watch For
These are common signs of asthma. If you notice any of these, it's worth having them evaluated.
Wheezing
Coughing, often worse at night or early in the morning
Shortness of breath
Chest tightness
Breathlessness during exercise or exertion
Symptoms that worsen with colds, cold air, pollen or dust
How We Evaluate It
Evaluating asthma starts with understanding you as an individual. We use these methods:
A Full History
We start by talking with you about your symptoms, when they happen, and what seems to trigger them.
A Physical Examination
A hands-on exam helps us understand how you are breathing and rule out other causes.
Allergy Skin Testing, Where Relevant
If allergies may be contributing to your asthma, we may recommend allergy skin testing to identify triggers.
Blood Testing, Where Appropriate
In some cases, blood testing can help us understand what may be contributing to your symptoms.
Breathing Tests
Breathing tests measure how well your lungs are working and help guide your care.
How We Treat It
Our approach to treating asthma includes:
Managing Medication
We help you manage your asthma medication so it fits your day-to-day life.
Identifying and Avoiding Triggers
We work with you to identify what triggers your asthma and how to reduce exposure to it.
Allergy Shots, Where Appropriate
When allergies are contributing to your asthma, allergy shots may be appropriate as part of your treatment.
An Individual Treatment Plan
We build a treatment plan specific to you and review it with you over time.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
A little preparation makes your first visit go smoothly.
Plan for a Longer Visit
Your first appointment takes longer than a routine visit, so we can take a full history and get to know you.
Bring Your Insurance Card
Please bring your insurance card, along with any referral your plan requires.
Bring a Medication List
A list of the medications you currently take helps us understand your full picture.
Complete Forms in Advance
You can save time by completing your forms in advance from our Patient Forms page. Visit Patient Forms