Asthma

Asthma symptoms vary by person and in severity, but there are some well-known signs that you may have the respiratory illness. Experiencing recurring bouts of the following symptoms may indicate that you have asthma:

• Frequent coughing
• Cough that produces mucus
• Dry cough
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness

Dr. Malik tests your lung capacity with a thorough pulmonary function test, also commonly called a lung function test. The test accurately measures how well your lungs are functioning and how your body takes in oxygen. The pulmonary function test not only helps Dr. Malik make an asthma diagnosis, but it also allows the team at First Medical Associates to monitor the progression of your disease and how well you respond to treatment.

If you have asthma, you know all too well that an attack can occur at any time. If you need quick help when asthma strikes, First Medical Associates provides nebulizer treatments in the walk-in urgent care clinic. Though asthma isn’t curable, there are a variety of non-emergency treatment options to help you handle the symptoms on a daily basis. The first step in asthma care is to know and avoid the things that may trigger you to cough and struggle for air. Some of these triggers may include:

• Allergies
• Air quality
• Exercise
• Strong smells and other irritants
• Smoking
• Lung infections

If Dr. Malik determines that you need medicine to manage your asthma, he may prescribe an inhaler, bronchodilator, immunotherapy, or oral medications. Once your treatment plan is customized, he’ll follow up regularly for monitoring and assessment. When asthma makes it hard to breathe, seek treatment and compassionate care at First Medical Associates: Call for an appointment or book online.