Asthma affects the airways in the lungs, and when these airways become inflamed and narrow, breathing becomes difficult. Common asthmatic symptoms include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Many people manage their symptoms with help from a primary care provider, but some situations may call for an asthma specialist, such as an allergist. These physicians have advanced training in managing chronic respiratory conditions. Here’s more information on asthma and what key signs mean you should visit a specialist:
If Asthma Runs in Your Family
Family history is one factor physicians ask about when evaluating a person’s risk for asthma. If one or both of your parents have asthma, you are more likely to develop the condition yourself. A family history of asthma doesn‘t mean you will absolutely develop the condition. It does mean you may benefit from closer attention to your respiratory health. Relatives with allergies, eczema, or hay fever may also be relevant, since these conditions are often associated with asthma.
Sharing this information with your doctor gives them a fuller picture of your health. An asthma specialist reviews your family history alongside your current symptoms, and they may recommend monitoring or testing based on their findings. Researchers have identified several genes that may be linked to asthma. These genes can influence how the immune system responds to allergens and irritants. Genes do not act alone, so environmental factors also play a role. Exposure to allergens, air pollution, and respiratory infections interact with genetic risk.
Diagnosing asthma usually begins with a detailed review of your medical history and symptoms; the specialist will also perform a physical exam. Lung function tests are a common part of the process. Spirometry measures how much air you can exhale and how quickly. Some specialists use a bronchodilator test, which compares lung function before and after inhaling a medication that opens the airways. Other tests may include allergy testing and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) testing to measure airway inflammation.
If You Experience Persistent Symptoms
Shortness of breath is a common reason people seek care for asthma, and it may occur during exercise, at night, or after exposure to triggers like pet dander. Shortness of breath can have many causes, but a specialist helps identify the source. You should think about scheduling an appointment with an asthma specialist if:
- Your Symptoms Occur More Than Twice a Week
- You Wake up at Night Because of Coughing or Wheezing
- You Use a Rescue Inhaler Frequently
- Your Symptoms Limit Work, Exercise, or Daily Activities
- Your Current Treatment Plan Does Not Seem To Control Your Symptoms
If you have sudden or severe difficulty breathing, seek emergency care right away.
If You’re a Smoker
Smoking affects the respiratory system in several ways. Tobacco smoke can irritate the lining of the airways, and secondhand smoke has a similar effect. For people with asthma, this irritation may lead to more frequent or more severe symptoms. Smoking may also reduce the effectiveness of some asthma medications. Smokers sometimes attribute a persistent cough or wheezing to smoking alone, but these symptoms may point to asthma or another condition that requires evaluation.
Asthma symptoms can affect sleep, work, exercise, and daily routines. Some asthma symptoms overlap with those of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which is also associated with smoking. An asthma specialist can perform tests to help distinguish between these conditions and discuss resources for quitting smoking. Reducing smoke exposure is one key step that supports better management of respiratory symptoms.
Find an Asthma Specialist Today
A family history of asthma, frequent shortness of breath, and a history of smoking are all reasons to contact a doctor. An asthma specialist can provide a thorough evaluation and a treatment plan suited to your needs. Early evaluation helps you better understand your symptoms and triggers. If you notice any of the signs described above, talk to your primary care provider about a referral. You can also search for board-certified allergists or pulmonologists in your area. For personalized healthcare advice, contact a nearby medical facility to schedule a consultation.
