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Is your asthma under control?

It is important to be able to identify that your asthma is out of control as well as find the best treatment to manage your symptoms. There are safe and effective treatments that can relieve you of of your uncontrolled symptoms of asthma and help you to carry on with your daily life.

The first step is to realize that your asthma is not under control. The following is a list of potential indicators that your asthma needs better management.

  • If you are having asthma symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath during the day more than four days per week.
  • If your asthma is waking you up at night.
  • If you have recently missed school or work because of your asthma.
  • If you have cut back on your usual activities because of my asthma
  • If you have recently gone to the emergency room or spent time in the hospital because of your asthma.
  • If you need to use your reliever medication (a fast-acting asthma medication that quickly relieves symptoms) four or more times per week (not counting puffs taken before exercise)
  • If you have experienced any unwanted effects from my asthma medications
  • If you use a peak flow meter (a device that helps you measure your lung function), and your peak flow meter readings have been getting worse.
  • If there have been any changes in your routine or environment lately (e.g., getting a pet, spending more time around smokers).

At Arizona Asthma and Allergy Institute, our doctors are experienced in the diagnosis and management of uncontrolled asthma and we want to help you to experience the relief that you need. Learn more here about what happens during an asthma attack. Call one of our offices today and feel better!

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Primatene Mist discontinued over the counter

The FDA has ordered Primatene Mist, the only over-the-counter asthma inhaler, be taken off drugstore shelves December 31st.  Primatene Mist has CFC’s which is not environmentally safe as this can deplete the earth’s ozone layer.  Several other products with CFC’s have already been removed from the market for the same reasons.

AAAI Physicians do not endorse Primatene Mist for asthma treatment because this is no longer the standard of care for asthma and the epinephrine in this medication has harmful side effects if over used.  There are safer and more appropriate medications for asthma treatment.

We feel this will improve patient care by decreasing adverse effects from this medication.  This will also encourage patients to see their physician to discuss their symptoms and have appropriate evaluation and treatment.

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