Asthma Attacks

Asthma is a lung condition that restricts the airflow through the bronchial tubes. This chronic condition affects over 25 million Americans, including an estimated 5 million children. Bronchial asthma can be controlled, but it is not curable. At Primary Care Joliet, we provide comprehensive treatment plans for controlling asthma attacks at our medical centers in Joliet and Wilmington, IL.

Asthma has multiple factors that can restrict breathing. First, a bronchospasm can occur where the muscles around the bronchial tubes tighten and narrow the airways. Excess mucus can form that fills the airways. Finally, inflammation of the linings of the airways contributes to restricted breathing during an asthma attack.

Causes and Symptoms of Asthma

Asthma affects people with this condition differently depending on the type of asthma they have and what triggers attacks. Some people have intermittent asthma, which is triggered by exercise, temperature, allergens or other factors. Others have persistent asthma that makes it difficult to breathe consistently. When an asthma attack occurs, the chest can feel tight, and it can be difficult to take a deep breath. Patients can experience shallow breathing and wheezing during these attacks.

Asthma is related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. Many people who have asthma can also develop COPD, which is called asthma-COPD overlap syndrome (ACOS). At Primary Care Joliet, we offer treatment for both asthma and COPD.

Managing Asthma Attacks

Asthma attacks are not just comfortable; they can be deadly. If you have symptoms of asthma, you need an effective treatment plan to keep it under control. Mild intermittent asthma may only require the use of a rescue inhaler when attacks occur, usually a medication such as albuterol. For moderate, severe or persistent types of asthma, a daily inhaler medication may be needed to reduce asthma attacks and the need for a rescue inhaler.

If you or your child has asthma symptoms, it is time to explore your treatment options. Our experienced and compassionate medical team at Primary Care Joliet can provide diagnosis and treatment for all types of asthma. Call one of our medical centers in the Joliet and Wilmington, IL, area to schedule an asthma treatment consultation.