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Breathing in: Asthma and Lung Disease Care

Sp​​​​ring has sprung! The heavy rains from this winter have brought Californians flowers, grasses and blossoming trees. This in turn has brought many of us seasonal allergies and other related symptoms, such as asthma.

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a condition in which your airways narrow, swell, and produce extra mucus due to irritations such as allergens. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. For some people, asthma is a minor nuisance. For others, it can be a major problem that interferes with daily activities and may require urgent care or even emergency room visits.

There is no cure for asthma, but symptoms can be controlled. People with asthma can work with their primary care provider, allergist and/or lung specialist to make sure they have the right medications to treat and prevent asthma symptoms. Individuals with asthma should visit their health care provider to ensure they have the medications and treatments needed to breathe easily this spring. Because asthma often changes over time, it is important that you work with your doctor to track your signs and symptoms and adjust treatment as needed.

If you or a family member have allergies or asthma, check out OPA's 2018-19 Commercial Health Plan Ratings on Asthma and Lung Disease Care and the five scores for the measures that make up the star rating!

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Sources:“Allergies and asthma: They often occur together." Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 06 Nov. 2018,

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/asthma/in-depth/allergies-and-asthma/art-20047458

“Asthma Overview", Mayo Clinic Website  

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/asthma/symptoms-causes/syc-20369653

“Health Topics Asthma," National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Website:

https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/asthma

“What is Asthma" WebMD Website:

https://www.webmd.com/asthma/what-is-asthma#1

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