Asthma Explained: Advice from a MHEDS Nurse Practitioner

Breathing is something most of us rarely think about—until it suddenly becomes difficult. For people living with asthma, that feeling of tightness in the chest or the struggle to take a full breath can happen unexpectedly and can be frightening. Asthma affects millions of people of all ages and can interfere with daily life, sleep, work, and physical activity. The good news is that with the right knowledge, treatment, and prevention strategies, asthma can be managed effectively and people can continue to live active, healthy lives.

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects the airways in the lungs, causing symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. When asthma is not properly managed, these symptoms can have a substantial impact on a person’s quality of life and overall well-being.

Most people have experienced shortness of breath at some point in their lives. If you have, you likely remember how uncomfortable—or even scary—it can feel. Now imagine that sensation occurring unexpectedly, without warning. That is the reality many people with asthma face during an asthma attack. Because of this, having the right education, prevention strategies, and management plan in place is incredibly important.

My name is Douglas Stazer, and I am a Nurse Practitioner at MHEDS, where I treat patients of all ages in a family practice setting. I have been a provider for almost two years and a nurse for more than thirteen years, with most of my experience in outpatient care. My goal in this article is to share helpful information and trusted resources so that patients and families can better understand asthma and learn how to manage it effectively.

When someone with asthma is exposed to certain triggers—such as allergens, pollution, changes in temperature or humidity, stress, infections, or exercise—their airways can become inflamed, narrow, and produce excess mucus. This combination restricts airflow and can make breathing extremely difficult. Reopening the airway and restoring oxygen flow to the lungs and the rest of the body is essential to prevent more serious complications.

There are several common misconceptions about asthma. Some people believe that asthma only affects children, that the condition is purely psychological, or that people with asthma should avoid exercise. In reality, asthma can affect people at any age and is a chronic medical condition that requires proper treatment and management. While anxiety or strong emotions may sometimes contribute to breathing difficulties, asthma itself is a physical condition affecting the airways. Exercise is actually encouraged for most people with asthma because it improves lung and heart health. The key is identifying and managing triggers so that physical activity can be done safely.

Because asthma can disrupt daily life, it is important for patients to:

1. Be properly diagnosed by a healthcare provider
2. Take prescribed medications as directed
3. Understand their condition and how it affects them
4. Have a plan in place in case of an asthma attack or worsening symptoms
5. Identify and avoid triggers whenever possible

Common Asthma Triggers

Common triggers that can lead to asthma symptoms include:

1. Allergens – pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander
2. Smoke and air pollution
3. Cold air or sudden weather changes
4. Respiratory infections, such as colds or the flu
5. Strong emotions or stress

How Asthma Is Diagnosed

Diagnosing asthma typically involves several steps, including:

1. A detailed medical history discussing symptoms and patterns
2. A physical examination
3. Lung function testing
4. Imaging of the lungs if necessary
5. Laboratory tests when appropriate

What to Do During an Asthma Attack

If you or someone near you is experiencing an asthma attack, the following steps are important:

1. Stay Calm
   Anxiety can worsen breathing difficulties and make it harder to think clearly.
2. Sit Upright
   Sitting upright allows your lungs more room to expand and can make breathing easier.
3. Follow Your Asthma Action Plan
   • Use your rescue inhaler as prescribed
   • Move away from any possible triggers if you can
4. Call 911 if symptoms do not improve
   Seek emergency help if:
   • Your rescue inhaler does not reduce symptoms
   • You cannot speak in full sentences
   • Lips, fingertips, or toes begin to turn blue

If any of this information sounds familiar or makes you concerned that you may have asthma and have never been diagnosed, please take the time to reach out to your healthcare team. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

For those who would like to learn more, the following organizations provide reliable information about asthma:

1. Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America – https://aafa.org/asthma/
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – https://www.cdc.gov/asthma/about/index.html
3. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Asthma Resources – https://www.pa.gov/agencies/health/diseases-conditions/chronic-disease/asthma/resources

Want to get a head start on your health? Call MHEDS at 814-453-6229 (Peach Street) or 814-616-7730 (John F. Kennedy Center).

Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public in learning more about their health. MHEDS’ providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.