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Asthma Specialist

Rapid Response Urgent Care

Family Practice and Urgent Care located in Pearland, TX

In the United States alone, more than 26 million people suffer from asthma, with 8.6% of all children and adults affected. This chronic condition constricts your airways and can lead to life-threatening complications if left untreated. At Rapid Response Urgent Care in Pearland, Texas, Dr. Daniel Obi-Ofodile can provide fast care for sudden asthma flare-ups without the need for a costly trip to the ER. To learn more about how Dr. Obi-Ofodile can serve your asthma needs, call to schedule your consultation or stop by today.

Asthma Q & A

What is asthma?

Asthma is a medical condition that causes your airways to constrict, swell, and produce more mucus than usual. This swelling can lead to a host of breathing difficulties, as well as coughing and wheezing fits.

What causes asthma?

It’s not entirely understood why some people get asthma and others don’t, and there seems to be a variety of reasons that people develop asthma rather than a single reason. Some factors that can lead to asthma in some people include:

  • A family history of asthma
  • Smoking
  • Exposure to irritants in the air
  • Being overweight
  • Having other respiratory medical conditions

Asthma symptoms are triggered by exposure to certain irritants or substances, leading to an “asthma attack.” Triggers vary from person to person and might include:

Airborne substances

Pollen, mites, mold, or even pet hair can cause asthma attacks.

Physical exertion

For some asthma sufferers, taxing the respiratory system can trigger an asthma attack.

Medications

Some asthma sufferers experience attacks after taking certain medications, such as pain relievers.

Cold air

Breathing cold, dry air can cause asthma attacks for some.

Illnesses

Common illnesses, such as the flu or a cold, can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Stress

Sometimes, even emotional changes such as severe stress can trigger an asthma attack.

What are the symptoms of asthma?

Asthma symptoms primarily affect your respiratory system and include:

  • Chest tightness and pain
  • Wheezing or a whistling sound when breathing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Fits of coughing or wheezing

These symptoms can range from minor to more severe depending on the severity of your asthma and whether you’re also suffering from other medical conditions.

How is asthma treated?

Currently, there is no known cure for asthma and treatment involves prevention and careful management of symptoms. Dr. Obi-Ofodile recommends patients keep an asthma journal to keep track of triggers, note activities that tax your breathing, and monitor your condition.

Medications are the primary treatment for asthma and Dr. Obi-Ofodile might provide a few different types depending on your triggers. Many of these medications relieve inflammation and reduce constriction in your airways. Asthma inhalers are important for relieving sudden, acute asthma attacks to improve breathing.

Vaccinations are highly important for minimizing asthma complications, particularly for the flu and other conditions that affect your airways. Dr. Obi-Ofodile recommends you come in for your vaccinations annually.

If you think you have asthma or your asthma is getting worse, let the experts at Rapid Response Urgent Care in Pearland, Texas, provide fast, effective care. Call to schedule your consultation or pay a visit today.