Milwaukee is plagued by asthma more than almost every other city in the U.S. and currently is in the midst of an asthma crisis.
As recently as 2011, Milwaukee ranked second in the nation in the prevalence of asthma, and has been one of the top 10 worst asthma cities for almost a decade. The asthma crisis in Milwaukee is extensive and it is getting considerably worse.
You should not have to make frequent, unscheduled visits to the doctor, Urgent Care, Emergency Room or be admitted often into the hospital, these are all signs of poorly controlled asthma. What you may not know is that every one of those visits increases the risk of not surviving this condition.
Do I have asthma? To determine if you have asthma, you first need to do a self assessment:
1) Are you experiencing any of the four classic asthma symptoms: coughing, chest tightness, wheezing or shortness of breath?
2) Do the symptoms occur during routine activities such as walking long distances, carrying groceries, doing laundry or going up and down stairs?
3) Are you ever awakened at night from any of these symptoms?
4) Do certain things cause these symptoms such as being around pets, strong odors, dust or outdoor allergens like grass and pollen? Or do they cause allergy symptoms?
5) Are any of the symptoms triggered by anxiety, stress or strong emotional expression such as laughing, crying, yelling or anger?
6) Do any family members have asthma, COPD, bronchitis or any other lung disorders?
They may not have been properly diagnosed but if they’re using an inhaler, that’s your first clue.
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you most likely have asthma and should be thoroughly evaluated.
If you have been diagnosed with asthma, you should:
Have an Asthma Action/ Management Plan.
Have no symptoms or minor symptoms of asthma without frequent rescue inhaler use.
Be able to take part in daily activities-including shopping, exercise or playing sports.
Have normal or near normal lung function.
Have no time off from school or work due to asthma.
Have no emergency room visits or hospital stays.
Sleep through the night without asthma symptoms. Have a partnership with your health care provider on meeting your goals for good asthma care.
If you do have asthma or any of the symptoms, you need a place that will provide the best care for your asthma needs.
Call me for more information or come see me,
Dorian James, RCP Owner and Clinical Director Pulmedix Asthma Care Center & PFT Lab