Asthma is a chronic condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to episodes of wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. At Norvinia Health, Dr. Mamta Ojha helps adult patients manage asthma with a personalized treatment plan aimed at achieving good long-term control.
What Is Asthma?
Asthma causes the airways to become inflamed and hyper-reactive, narrowing in response to certain triggers and making it harder to breathe. Severity ranges from mild and intermittent to severe and persistent, and symptoms can vary significantly from person to person.
Common Asthma Triggers
- Allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold
- Respiratory infections, including colds and the flu
- Cold air
- Exercise
- Smoke and air pollution
- Strong odors or chemical fumes
- Certain medications, such as NSAIDs or beta-blockers
- Stress and strong emotions
- Acid reflux (GERD)
Symptoms of Asthma
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Coughing, especially at night or early morning
- Symptoms that worsen with exercise, cold air, or specific triggers
How Is Asthma Diagnosed?
- Detailed symptom history and trigger identification
- Spirometry to measure lung function
- Peak flow monitoring
- Allergy testing, when relevant
- Trial of asthma medication to assess response
Treatment and Long-Term Control
- Quick-relief (rescue) inhalers: Used for immediate relief during flare-ups.
- Controller medications: Inhaled corticosteroids and other daily medications that reduce airway inflammation and prevent symptoms.
- Trigger avoidance: Identifying and minimizing exposure to personal asthma triggers.
- Asthma action plan: A personalized, written plan outlining daily management and steps to take during a flare-up.
- Allergy management: Treating underlying allergies that contribute to asthma symptoms.
- Regular monitoring: Tracking symptoms and lung function to adjust treatment as needed.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Severe symptoms — such as significant difficulty breathing, bluish lips or face, inability to speak in full sentences, or a rescue inhaler providing little relief — require immediate emergency care.
The Importance of Regular Primary Care
Well-controlled asthma allows most patients to live full, active lives. Dr. Mamta Ojha works with patients to develop a personalized asthma action plan, adjust treatment as needed, and reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups.
If you have symptoms of asthma or need help managing an existing diagnosis, schedule an appointment with Norvinia Health today.
References
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) — Asthma Management Guidelines.
Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) — Asthma Diagnosis and Management.
