#156 - Is Your Asthma Worse Than It Should Be? Signs of Uncontrolled Asthma

If you have asthma, there is a good chance you have learned to live around it. You sleep with your inhaler on the nightstand. You skip the walk because you know it will leave you breathless. This is called uncontrolled asthma, and it is more common than you think. But here is the thing: none of that is normal, and none of it is something you have to accept. Dr. Juanita Mora, allergist and immunologist, joins Kortney and Dr. Gupta to help patients figure out whether their asthma is actually being managed the way it should be, and what to do if it is not. What we cover in this episode about asthma symptoms and control What well-managed asthma actually looks like. Dr. Mora explains what life should feel like when your asthma is properly treated, and why so many patients have accepted a version of their life that is smaller than it needs to be. Why frequent flare-ups are a warning sign. Why underlying airway swelling is dangerous and why catching it early matters. The Rules of 2. Five questions covering daytime symptoms, nighttime waking, rescue inhaler use, inhaler refills, and steroid use that can help you figure out if your asthma needs more attention. When to ask for a referral. If you are answering yes to any of these questions and your treatment plan is not changing, it may be time to push for a referral to an allergist or pulmonologist who has more tools to help. First steps you can take with ControlYourAsthma.org. Dr. Mora walks through the campaign website, available in English and Spanish, including videos, the Rules of 2 quiz, and access to a free asthma coach. More resources ControlYourAsthma.org ControlarTuAsma.org Free Asthma Coach Program __________ Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Sanofi-Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode.  This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.