Severe Asthma

WHAT IS SEVERE ASTHMA?

Severe Asthma is defined as Asthma that requires medium or high-doses of inhaled corticosteroids combined with long-acting medications to control symptoms.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

Symptoms include the standard Asthma indicators of coughing, wheezing, tightness in the chest and difficulty breathing. However, someone with Severe Asthma has symptoms that persist, often multiple times throughout the day and every night.

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?

Your Gateway Asthma & Allergy Relief doctor will review your medical history and discuss with you the number and severity of your Asthma attacks. A lung function test using a spirometer will determine your lung capacity by measuring your total intake and output of air.

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS?

Typically, steroids are used to help control symptoms. Extended use of steroids, however, carries the risk of increased side effects. Recently, biologics have shown promise in the treatment of Severe Asthma. These medications target the signals in the body involved in causing the exaggerated response. This can reduce the length and severity of an Asthma attack and also diminish the need for long-term steroid use. Make an appointment with your Gateway Asthma & Allergy Relief doctor if you think you may have Severe Asthma.