ASTHMA

What is Asthma
Asthma is a breathing condition that affects millions of Americans. It is a chronic disease involving inflammation of the airways that leads to swelling. When this happens, breathing becomes labored and difficult. Some people may have asthma related to allergies, while others do not. Around 90% of kids who suffer from childhood asthma are suffering from allergies while 50% of adults do. In the case of allergic asthma, your airways are more sensitive to certain allergens such as pollen or pet dander. The severity of asthma can range from mild to severe and can be life-threatening if not treated correctly.

What Causes Asthma
There is no apparent cause of asthma. Several factors are believed to influence the development of asthma, such as environmental exposure or respiratory infections. Stress can also trigger what is known as an “asthma attack, ” and emotional distress can worsen symptoms. Common triggers for asthma include pollens, pets, mold and dust mites. Other triggers involve inhalation of tobacco smoke, breathing in cold, dry air or Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

When You Should Seek Treatment
Asthma symptoms are hard to ignore. If you’re feeling out of breath, experiencing wheezing, or coughing – especially during exercise – it’s important to seek treatment. Other symptoms involve difficulty talking, chest tightness or pressure and a pale, sweaty face. It is not recommended to ignore your symptoms. Seek medical treatment right away if you have severe asthma symptoms.

A severe asthma attack is characterized by severe shortness of breath, chest tightness or pain, and coughing or wheezing.

Why You Should Seek Treatment
Asthma can be fatal. While patients with severe or chronic asthma are at the greatest risk, all patients with asthma are at risk. Asthma fatalities are preventable when the right care is given. Those with asthma tend to underestimate their symptoms, and this can lead to complications such as respiratory arrest.

Treatment
If you experience a severe asthma attack, it is recommended you seek emergency treatment. In some cases, you may need to breathe oxygen through a mask.

Receiving chiropractic care can also help treat asthma. Chiropractors can correct problems with musculoskeletal alignment which can lead to an improvement in asthma symptoms over time. The focus will be primarily on realigning the spine, as the spine can play a significant role in reducing the symptoms associated with asthma. Chiropractic care can also help reduce stress, which is a known trigger of asthma. Other benefits include an increase in energy and overall quality of life.

Schedule Your Appointment Today
Contact us today and schedule an appointment with SpinePlus Chiropractic.