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Healthfirst NJ Staying Healthy With Asthma

In the United States, more than 22 million people are known to have asthma. Nearly 6 million of these people are children.

What is asthma?
Asthma is a serious on-going medical condition in which the airways that carry air into and out of the lungs become swollen or inflamed. 

Asthma does not have a cure, but it can be controlled.

Who is at risk for getting asthma?
Asthma affects people of all ages, but it often starts in childhood. Children six years of age and older who frequently experience wheezing with respiratory infections, cold, flu, or sinus infection are at a high risk of developing asthma.

High risk factors include:

• Parents who have asthma
• Eczema (an allergic skin condition)
• Allergies

Speak with your healthcare provider if you believe you or a member of your family may be at high risk for getting asthma.

What are asthma triggers?
Asthma triggers may make asthma symptoms feel worse and can cause an asthma attack.  Learning to avoid or limit exposure to triggers will help to control your asthma.

What are asthma symptoms?
Asthma symptoms can range from mild to severe. Mild symptoms may go away on their own or after taking asthma medication, as prescribed by your doctor. Severe symptoms can lead to an asthma attack.

Asthma symptoms can range from:

• A heavy feeling and tightness in the chest
• Coughing with increased mucus production - may be worse at night
• Difficulty breathing and shortness of breath
• Wheezing

How often do the symptoms occur?
Asthma symptoms often occur during the night, early in the morning, and after being exposed to triggers that cause symptoms. 

Symptoms can be controlled and stabilized for most people who have asthma with prescription medicine from your doctor.

How is asthma diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider may diagnose asthma based on your medical history, a physical exam, and results from tests. Your doctor may also ask you to visit an asthma specialist if you or your child:

• Need special tests
• Use more than one kind of medicine or high doses of medicine for asthma
• Had a life-threatening asthma attack
• Have difficulty controlling your asthma
• Are getting allergy treatments

Can asthma be controlled?
Yes, asthma can be controlled.  A registered nurse from the Healthfirst NJ Medical Management Department can assist you in monitoring your asthma symptoms and offer tips on avoiding the triggers that cause it.

Managing asthma symptoms can be as simple as 1-2-3.