Asthma is a chronic disease that inflames and narrows the airways and affects the quality of life of over 300 million people worldwide. It can be triggered by many factors, such as tobacco smoke, allergies, stress, and cold air. Asthma can also be hereditary, so you may have a higher risk of asthma if it runs in your family.
What causes asthma?
Asthma causes or triggers can be anything from an allergy to a chemical or a change in the weather. Common asthma triggers:
- Changes in the weather
- Exercise
- Breathing irritating fumes
- Hormones
- High pollen
- High mold & mold spores
- Airborne Irritants
- Pets
- Scented Products
- Sleeping Pills
- Smoking
- Stress
What are the symptoms of asthma?
Asthma symptoms are often easy to notice because they will directly affect your ability to breathe, however, some people ignore the symptoms until they become more severe. Common symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Cough
- Chest tightness or pain
- Wheezing
- Waking at night due to asthma symptoms
- Having breathing difficulty when sick
Can a virtual doctor help treat asthma?
Yes! Dr. Hughes has over a decade of experience providing quality healthcare to hundreds of patients. DirectMD Virtual Primary Care has made it even easier to meet with him directly while never leaving the comfort of your home. If you have been diagnosed with asthma or believe your symptoms match the ones above, schedule your appointment and get the personalized care you need.
How is asthma treated?
Currently, there is no cure for asthma, so the goal of treatment is to help control the symptoms and manage any triggers so you are able to live a normal and active life. Inhalers are commonly and widely used because of their quick effect and ease of administration. These devices let you breathe in medicine and apply it directly to the respiratory organs. In more severe cases, tablets, injections, and even surgery may be necessary.
3 Different Types Of Inhalers For Asthma
Reliever inhalers
Reliever inhalers are the most common type and are usually in blue containers. These inhaler types are used only as needed to treat your symptoms when they occur. You should experience a relief of symptoms within a few minutes and be able to return to normal activity.
If you use your reliever inhaler more than 3 times per week, you may be in need of additional treatment such as a preventer inhaler.
Preventer inhalers
Preventer inhalers are the medicine you take every day to reduce the inflammation and sensitivity of your airways, which stops symptoms from occurring. Unlike reliever inhalers, you will use this inhaler every day, even if you do not have symptoms (that means it’s working!).
Combination (hybrid) inhalers
In some cases, using a reliever and preventer inhaler is insufficient to provide relief from asthma symptoms. In those cases, Dr. Hughes may recommend a combination inhaler that combines both types of medicine. Similar to preventer inhalers, combination inhalers are used every day regardless of the absence of symptoms. The medications acting together provide long-lasting relief from daily asthma symptoms.
How Much Does DirectMD Virtual Primary Care Cost?
Your Direct Care Membership grants you access to all of your primary care needs with Dr. Hughes. The monthly membership cost is a minimal $70 per month.
How Do I Get Started?
If you are interested in enjoying the benefits and convenience of DirectMD Virtual Primary Care telemedicine, you can sign up by clicking on the Subscribe Today button at the top of the page & completing the contact form. Or, if you have questions before you get started, feel free to contact us via phone at 682-540-4824 or email at info@thedirectmd.com.
