Breathe » Live » Thrive Learning Center
So, You’ve Been Diagnosed with Hives!
by Richard S. Roberts, M.D. Don’t despair. You’re not alone. Approximately 20% of the population will have hives (urticaria) at one time or another during their lifetime. First off, are you sure that they’re really hives? True More»
What is asthma?
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by inflammation of the airways, and increased responsiveness to various stimuli commonly called asthma triggers. Asthma episodes involve progressively worsening shortness of breath, cough, wheezing More»
How does the body react to asthma?
During an asthma attack, the following happen: The muscle surrounding the airway tightens. The lining of the airways become swollen. The mucus glands along the airways increase mucus production. Symptoms of an More»
What are the triggers or common causes of asthma?
ALLERGIES Food, pollens, animals, feathers, insect body parts and feces, sulfites (food preservative), dust. DUST Cloth, upholstered furniture, bedding, carpets, draperies, brooms, dirty air filters on furnaces and air conditioners, pets. EMOTIONS More»
How is asthma diagnosed?
The usual starting point is a visit to your doctor for a physical exam. This appointment will probably include: A review of your family’s health history A discussion of your own personal More»
How is asthma managed?
You can take an active role in controlling your asthma symptoms by working with your doctor, taking your medication regularly, and making the lifestyle changes that can reduce your risks. Follow these More»
What is occupational asthma, and how can it be controlled?
Occupational asthma is generally defined as a respiratory disorder directly related to inhaling fumes, gases, or dust while “on the job.” Asthma may develop for the first time in a previously healthy More»
Can certain foods trigger asthma?
Food triggered asthma is unusual. Although food allergies may trigger asthma in a small number of people, not all individuals with food allergies have asthma. Substantial scientific investigation has found that the More»
Should asthma prevent exercise?
Up to 85% of asthmatics have symptoms of wheezing during or following exercise. In addition, many non-asthmatic patients with allergies or a family history of allergy experience bronchospasm or constricted airways caused More»
How does asthma affect pregnancy?
Increasing evidence indicates that uncontrolled asthma is a possible threat to maternal and fetal survival and fetal growth. The goals of asthma therapy during pregnancy are the same as in non-pregnant patients More»
How will I be tested for allergy?
Percutaneous (prick) testing, intradermal testing and RAST testing are the methods used to determine what allergens people are allergic to. Percutaneous or prick testing is when the suspecting allergens are placed on More»
What is immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is the process of injecting the known allergens over a period of time in a gradual dose to a maximal tolerated level. It is a treatment used to prevent allergic symptoms. More»
What is allergic rhinitis?
Known to most people as hay fever, allergic rhinitis is a very common medical problem affecting more than 15 percent of the population, both adults and children. Allergic rhinitis takes two different More»
What is sinusitis?
You’re coughing and sneezing and tired and achy. You think that you might be getting a cold. Later, when the medicines you’ve been taking to relieve the symptoms of the common cold More»
What is a stinging insect allergy?
Each year millions of Americans are stung by bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, and fire ants. These insects, members of the Hymenoptera family, inject venom into their victims when they sting. For More»
What is atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is one of the most common skin problems today. A form of eczema – a condition which causes skin to become red, swollen and painful – this disorder causes chronic More»
What is contact dermatitis?
Atopic dermatitis is one of the most common skin problems today. A form of eczema – a condition which causes skin to become red, swollen and painful – this disorder causes chronic More»