If you suffer from symptoms of asthma, you're not alone. The Mayo Clinic estimates that there are approximately 10% of children with asthma and 5% of adults with asthma in the United States. About half of the cases of asthma in children develop before age 10. Not only can asthma be frustrating to live with, it can be dangerous to your health. At Allergy & Asthma Associates of Southern California, our board-certified and fellowship-trained specialists can accurately diagnose and effectively treat asthma. They can help you control your attacks so you can live a normal life, no matter what your age.
What is asthma?
While the cause of asthma is often unknown, it is often an inherited condition. There are many triggers that can contribute to the signs and symptoms of asthma. These include respiratory infection, exercise-induced asthma symptoms, cold air and stress. In addition, asthma can be triggered by exposure to pollen, mold, spores, odors, smoke, animal dander and dust mites.
With asthma, your lungs and bronchial tubes become inflamed and limit airflow, which makes breathing difficult. Common symptoms of asthma include difficulty breathing, wheezing symptoms, chest tightness and coughing. Asthma attacks can last minutes to hours or even days. While some attacks are mild, others can be life-threatening if airflow is severely obstructed.
Helping you breathe easier
Your care begins with a comprehensive exam and health history and in-office testing. Our asthma doctors will take the time to educate you about your condition. You'll learn how to avoid asthma triggers and how to recognize and respond to an asthma attack early. To control your asthma, we offer asthma medications and inhalers. We may also recommend allergy shots (immunotherapy) or oral immunotherapy, which can help prevent asthma attacks by making you less sensitive to allergens that trigger them.
Expert care for asthma in children
Life can seem challenging for children who are dealing with asthma. But thanks to today's advances in pediatric asthma treatment, children can regain their independence and participate in their favorite activities safely and without worry. Our asthma doctors are pediatric allergists and have advanced training in pediatric asthma medications and provide kids with friendly, gentle care. This makes your child's visit a positive experience and maximizes the effectiveness of his or her treatment. In addition, you are more than welcome to join your child during their exam and testing to provide him or her with welcome words of encouragement.
For more information about treatment for asthma or to schedule your personal appointment with one of our asthma doctors, call (949) 364-2900 today. Our service area includes Irvine, Ladera Ranch, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Newport Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, San Juan Capistsrano, Talega, Aliso Viejo, Coto de Caza and Dana Point in Orange County (OC), CA.
