Asthma Specialist

Crown Clinic PA

Internal Medicine & Family Medicine Clinic located in Charlotte, NC

If you have asthma, skilled internist, Obinna Oriaku, MD, at Crown Clinic PA in Charlotte, the Historic South End of North Carolina, can help you control and manage it through a variety of treatment options. He even offers allergy testing to get to the bottom of what’s causing your asthma symptoms. By working hand in hand with Dr. Oriaku, you’ll learn to manage your asthma and not be restricted from physical activities. For questions regarding asthma, call the office today or schedule your appointment online.

Annual Physical

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic lung disease in which the airways become inflamed and swollen, in addition to producing excessive mucus. While some people aren’t bothered as much by asthma, it can certainly cause major problems that interfere with your daily activities.

Asthma symptoms include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Wheezing
  • Coughing
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Shortness of breath

Because asthma can be life-threatening, it’s critical you schedule a visit with Dr. Oriaku if you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms to determine if you have asthma and prevent any further lung damage.

How is asthma diagnosed?

To diagnose asthma, Dr. Oriaku first rules out other possible lung conditions by performing a physical exam and discussing your medical history. It’s important that you’re transparent and honest with Dr. Oriaku, because your family history, along with understanding your asthma triggers, can help in making an accurate diagnosis.

After discussing your personal and medical history, Dr. Oriaku takes X-rays of your lungs and sinuses. He also performs a lung function test to measure your breathing, which can confirm an asthma diagnosis. The main test done is a spirometry test, which measures the speed and amount of air your blow out.

Allergy tests can help determine what’s causing your asthma symptoms, especially if allergies are the main trigger for your asthma attacks. Because allergy skin tests are quick, you won’t have to worry about any downtime afterward.

How can I manage my asthma?

While there is no cure for asthma, it’s possible to manage it so you can live a healthy and active life. Dr. Oriaku can show you how to properly use your inhaler, so you make sure the medicine reaches your airways. Another crucial part of managing your asthma is to understand your asthma triggers and do your best to avoid them.

It’s also important to understand that even if you don’t have asthma, you can develop it. Important risk factors that can increase your chances of developing asthma include being a smoker, being overweight, and being exposed to secondhand smoke.

To learn more about how you can control your asthma so it doesn’t inhibit your life, call Crown Clinic PA today or book your appointment online.