If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of asthma, or is suspected of having asthma, then you might be wondering what physician to schedule an appointment with. Is it better to see primary care doctors or cut to the chase and visit specialists? In this brief article, we share some basic information that might help you make that decision. Those looking for a physician in the Southern Maryland area can call Southern Maryland Medical Group to schedule a convenient appointment or arrange a walk-in appointment as soon as possible.
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of people worldwide. In people with asthma, the airways become inflamed, narrow, and produce excess mucus, making it difficult to breathe. Asthma can be a life-threatening condition if not managed correctly, but most people with asthma can live normal, healthy lives with proper treatment and management.
The exact cause of asthma is unknown, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Certain triggers, such as allergens, irritants, respiratory infections, exercise, and stress, can cause asthma symptoms to flare or worsen.
The symptoms of asthma can vary in severity and frequency from person to person, but common symptoms include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Symptoms can be intermittent, occurring only during certain activities or periods, or can be persistent, occurring daily or several times a week.
Common treatment options for asthma include inhaled medications, such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids, which are delivered through an inhaler or nebulizer. These medications work by relaxing the airways and reducing inflammation, respectively. Additionally, avoiding triggers and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, can help manage asthma symptoms.
Several types of doctors can diagnose and/or treat asthma, depending on the severity of the condition. Primary care physicians, such as family doctors, internists, and pediatricians, can diagnose and manage mild to moderate asthma. For more severe or complicated asthma, patients may be referred to an allergist or immunologist. Pulmonologists are also specialists that can diagnose and treat asthma.
In essence, the type of doctor that treats asthma depends on the severity of the condition and the specific needs of the patient. Primary care physicians can provide initial diagnosis and management, while specialists can offer more advanced testing and treatment options for severe or difficult-to-treat asthma.
Many people put off seeing their doctor when everything seems fine, but regular wellness visits to your primary care physician is a crucial part of staying healthy. A primary care physician in Hyattsville can provide a comprehensive evaluation to diagnose health issues, such as asthma, early on and start treatment to prevent symptoms from getting worse.
Further, because your physician will be familiar with you and your medical history, they can create personalized treatment plans based on your unique situation. In any case, the primary care physician can always coordinate care with specialists, such as allergists or pulmonologists, to ensure comprehensive management of the condition.
Finally, seeing a nearby primary care physician for asthma management can be more cost-effective than seeing a specialist, especially for mild to moderate asthma.
Southern Maryland Medical Group has 3 convenient locations to provide professional medical care services in the Southern Maryland area. Call or schedule an appointment with one of our locations to get medical care help.
5801 Allentown Road, Suite 400 Camp Spring, MD 20746
Phone: 301-868- 0150
Billing Inquiries: 301-552-1270
Fax: 301-868-0243
7500 Greenway Center, Dr #1200 Greenbelt, MD 20770
Phone: 301-486-7580
Billing Inquiries: 301-552-1270
Fax: 301-486-7581
6510 Kenilworth Ave, Ste 1400, Riverdale MD 20737
Phone: 301-618-0771
Billing Inquiries: 301-552-1270
Fax: 301-618-0772
