See A Pulmonologist Houston For Asthma Treatment And Management

One out of twelve adults suffers from asthma. Primary care physicians do their best to treat the symptoms, but many patients require the help of a specialist. Pulmonologists are doctors who have undergone additional training in the area of lung disease. A pulmonologist Houston has valuable experience working with patients to manage their asthma symptoms.

Asthma is caused by inflammation of the small tubes which carry air in and out of the lungs. When the lungs are irritated by a trigger such as smoke or pollen, the airways are constricted. Asthma symptoms include coughing, wheezing, tightness in the chest and difficulty breathing.

When a patient with asthma symptoms visits a pulmonologist, the doctor will perform one or more diagnostic tests. The patient may be asked to blow forcefully into the mouthpiece of a spirometer or a peak flow meter. The spirometer measures the amount of air breathed in and out over a specified period of time. The peak flow meter measures the degree of obstruction in the airways.

Some allergic forms of asthma are detected using a bronchial provocation test. The patient is given a spray to breathe containing a drug called methacholine. Lung function is measured with a spirometer both before and after breathing in the drug. If it shows that methacholine caused the airways to narrow, asthma is confirmed.

After a patient has been diagnosed with asthma, the pulmonologist will prescribe medications and devise a daily management plan. The patient is taught to recognize the onset of an asthma attack and how to manage symptoms. The goal is to control the asthma so that it does not interfere with normal activities and never reaches the point of needing treatment in an emergency room.

A good way to locate a pulmonologist Houston is through a Harris County physician referral service. When considering doctors, always make sure they are accredited and board certified. Check that the physician you choose accepts your insurance or health care plan before making an appointment.

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