Asthma Care

Asthma Management

Our practice provides a comprehensive asthma and allergy management program for our patients. Our pediatricians are trained in the diagnosis and management of childhood asthma and allergies. Diagnosis is usually made during a sick visit when a child is wheezing or exhibiting symptoms of asthma and allergies. Occasionally, we may diagnose your child with asthma or allergies during a preventive care visit based on patient or parent concerns or our exam findings.

Pulmonary Function Testing (aka Spirometry)

Pulmonary function testing is done at least annually and may be done more frequently when monitoring medication changes. The test results are interpreted by our Asthma Coordinator and our providers to help guide your child’s treatment. This is a non-invasive test performed in all patients age 5 or older with asthma to assess lung function, response to medication and overall asthma control. 

Asthma Education

We teach about environmental controls and avoidance of triggers. We also watch your child's inhaler technique to confirm it is being used correctly. Information about caring for the medication devices that your child uses is provided and reviewed at every visit. We will review, update and provide an Asthma Action Plan at your child's visit.

Maintenance Visits

Children with asthma should be seen in our office at regular intervals depending on their severity of illness and their asthma control. Children should be healthy for these visits or at minimum without fever for 24 hours. Children on daily maintenance medications need to be seen every 6 months with a Spirometry test annually. Children with intermittent asthma, not on daily medications, should be seen annually with Spirometry testing every 2 years. Regular visits are required in order for us to evaluate your child prior to medication refills.