EnglishFrenchGermanItalianPortugueseRussianSpanish
SCHEDULE APPT
MAKE A PAYMENT
MENU

Breathe Easier with Asthma and COPD Care

Asthma and COPD are very concerning conditions, as they can cause difficulty breathing and create a significant impact on a person's quality of life. We understand the importance of education and support, so we strive to empower our patients by informing them about their condition and connecting them with an experienced pulmonologist.

SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT

What is Asthma and COPD?

Asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) are two chronic respiratory conditions that can have a significant impact on a person’s life. While asthma and COPD may have similar symptoms such as difficulty breathing, they are distinct health conditions.

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that is characterized by inflammation of the airways and bronchi resulting in narrowed airways, difficulty breathing, and wheezing. People with asthma have episodes of difficulty breathing or wheezing that typically come and go, and may occur more often when exposed to triggers such as allergens or infections. Asthma is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases, and affects more than 25 million Americans.

COPD is a chronic lung condition caused by long-term exposure to irritants such as smoke from cigarettes, air pollution, and chemical fumes. People with COPD tend to experience slow but progressive breathlessness, as their airways become obstructed due to inflammation and mucus build-up. COPD affects about 16 million people in the United States and is the fourth leading cause of death in the country.

What are the Symptoms of Asthma?

Asthma is characterized by episodes of difficulty breathing or wheezing that generally come and go.

  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest tightness
  • Coughing
  • Wheezing
  • Difficulty breathing

What are the Symptoms of COPD?

COPD includes a group of lung diseases that obstruct airflow from the lungs, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

  • Persistent coughing with mucus
  • Chest tightness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue

How Is Asthma and COPD Diagnosed?

When a patient comes in with breathing problems, Dr. McElya will start with a pulmonary function test toevaluate the possibility of various respiratory diseases such as asthma, COPD, emphysema, and bronchitis.

A pulmonary function test will measure how well the lungs take in and exhale air, as well as the movement of gases such as oxygen and carbon dioxide throughout the body. This type of test also determines the patient's lung capacity and the capacity of the airways, as a patient with asthma would have normal or only slightly restricted airways, while a patient with COPD would have significantly more impaired airways.

For an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment, Dr. McElya will refer you to a pulmonologist if you are suspected of having a respiratory illness such as asthma, COPD, or chronic bronchitis. A referral to a pulmonologist can help you get more insight into your condition and ensure you receive the best treatment.

If you're experiencing any chronic respiratory symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness, Dr. McElya can run a pulmonary lung test and provide you with a referral to a pulmonologist. They can provide specialized care and treatments to help you breathe easier.

CONTACT US TODAY
CLOSE
SCHEDULE APPT
MAKE A PAYMENT