Low Cost Asthma Treatment at Patient First Wellness

by | Jan 21, 2020 | General Medical Articles | 0 comments

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that affects people of all ages. Both men and women have this condition, but it is more common among young boys and older women. Asthma can cause coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest discomfort. If you think you have this condition, consult one of the Las Vegas doctors at Patient’s Choice Medical Center. Also, these caring healthcare professionals treat children with asthma and other medical illnesses. This clinic is an affordable option for people who do not have health insurance.

Facts about Asthma

• Asthma costs the U.S. around $55 billion per year.
• The average annual cost of care for a child with asthma is $1,050.
• Asthma causes over 10 million missed days of school.
• Approximately 18 million Americans suffer with asthma.
• More than 7 million children have asthma.
• Approximately 9 people die from asthma every day.

Diagnosing Asthma

It is often difficult to tell when someone has asthma, especially young children. The doctors at Patient Care Wellness will perform a thorough evaluation and complete history to evaluate you. The general health evaluation and wellness screening is only $150, a discount of almost $500 when compared to most hospital-based centers. During a checkup, the doctor will ask you if you have a cough that is worse at night, and inquire about specific symptoms that are related to asthma. He may conduct a breathing test (known as a spirometry) to evaluated your lung functions. Also, you may have an oxygen evaluation by a pulse oximetry device.

Asthma Attacks

An asthma attack is a spell of really bad symptoms that do not readily go away. You could have chest tightness, trouble breathing, coughing, and wheezing. The air tries to pass through your breathing passages (called bronchioles), and mucous and swelling permits it from passing through. This leads to the shortness of breath common among asthmatics. The good news is that you can control these symptoms and prevent asthma attacks. The doctor will work with you to find the right combination of medications and treatment options for your individual condition.

Asthma Triggers

Things that make your asthma worse or bring on an attack are known as triggers. These are factors that lead to airway edema and mucous production. When the breathing passages are inflamed, it leads to signs and symptoms of an asthma attack. Known triggers include:

Tobacco Smoke – Whether it is your own smoke or someone else’s, tobacco smoke is one of the most common asthma triggers. Secondhand smoke is worse when you are closed in a car or small space, so avoid riding with smokers. Also, never expose a child to secondhand smoke.

Air Pollution – If you live in a metropolitan area, chances are, you deal with outdoor pollution. Air pollution comes from large factories, automobiles, and industries. Plan outdoor activities during times when the air quality forecast suggests levels will be lower.

Dust Mites – You can’t see them, you can’t hear them, but they are in almost every person’s home much of the time. Dust mites are tiny organisms that live on mattress covers, pillowcases, and blankets. Avoid down-filled quilts and pillows, as these are sources of dust mites.

Pet Dander – If you own a pet, the animal’s dander could be a trigger for your asthma. This is especially true in dark furred pets. Keep the pet outdoors if possible, or try to find it a good home. Additionally, avoid sleeping in the same room as your pet.

Mold – Breathing mold is a known asthma trigger. Use a hygrometer to check humidity levels in your home, and keep them no higher than 50% to prevent mold growth and development. Moisture in the air makes mold accumulate in your home.

Cockroach Dung – Cockroaches and their droppings lead to asthma symptoms. Remove any standing water or food from your home, and keep everything sealed closed. Vacuum and sweep often, and use roach traps to prevent these pests.

Ginger Could Help Asthma Symptoms

According to research by the American Thoracic Society (2013), ginger compounds may be beneficial in treatment the signs and symptoms of asthma. Researchers at Columbia University took human tissue samples and exposed them to a neurotransmitting substance called acetylcholine. This compound is known to cause brochoconstriction, as in an asthma attack. They added three components of ginger to some of the tissue samples and found that those specimens treated with the purified ginger had a significant relaxation effect. The investigators concluded that ginger could treat some of the clinical manifestations of asthma.

Final Thoughts

If you think you or your child has asthma and you do not have insurance, come in to the Patient’s Choice Medical Center for an evaluation. The general health checkup and wellness screening includes a series of laboratory tests and a thorough assessment. The Las Vegas certified doctors can diagnose and treat your asthma with affordable options.