Med group offers allergy, asthma treatment options

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Shunna Flowers
  • 42nd Medical Group
Asthma and allergies are two of the most common chronic childhood diseases. Asthma affects nearly five million American children, while allergies affect about 50 million. Asthma occurs when the airway in the lungs become inflamed or constricted. 

Signs and symptoms of asthma may range from minor wheezing to life-threatening attacks. There are many different types of asthma; they include exercise-induced, cough-variant, occupational, and nocturnal,or night time. 

Many children with asthma tend to miss out on school, sports, and other childhood activities. A wide range of things can trigger an asthma attack. They include cigarette smoke, pollen, dust mites, furry animals, cold air, changing weather conditions, exercise and even stress. Ongoing exposure to these substances and conditions will not only worsen symptoms, but also continue to aggravate airway inflammation. 

One of the most important treatments of asthma is to control underlying inflammation of the airways. This can be done by taking medication or by avoiding environmental factors that cause or aggravate airway inflammation. It is important for the patient and their family members to learn how to identify and avoid things that trigger asthma and allergy symptoms, recognize and prevent asthma attacks, understand medications, and help manage symptoms.

Currently 96 percent of children enrolled at the 42nd Medical Group Pediatric Clinic are in compliance with receiving their asthma control medication, but we are striving for 100 percent. To assist parents, the clinic offers a monthly, two-hour long Asthma Clinic conducted by a pediatric nurse. 

The course consists of the causes and origin of asthma, physical changes that occur, allergen triggers, and the purpose of rescue and control medications used to manage symptoms. Educational material and asthma related websites for further information are also provided. 

You can find out more details of the asthma clinic and other services that are offered by the Maxwell Pediatric Clinic by attending our Open House that will be held on May 19 from 3 to 5 p.m. Also in attendance will be Family Advocacy, Family Practice, Dental Clinic and Immunizations. For more information, please call 953-8598.