Asthma counselors
You have access to a certified asthma counselor. They develop a personalized action plan with you and your family to help manage your asthma in the most effect way.
Asthma Care
Help when regular breathing gets not-so-easy.
Our approach to asthma care
You’re one of a kind. We believe your care should be, too. That's why we put you, the person — not just your asthma — at the center of our approach. You can expect personalized care from diagnosis to treatment. With deep knowledge and a proven track record, we’re here to make your experience as simple, manageable and successful as possible.
Signs and symptoms
Asthma is a lifelong condition where triggers cause your airways to become inflamed, making it hard to breathe. Asthma can surface at any age and in many ways. That’s why it’s important to pay close attention to your body. If something feels off, get help. Common signs and symptoms of asthma include:
- Coughing at night
- Coughing throughout the day
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing or tightness in your chest
- Exercise-induced coughing or chest tightness
When to seek care
If you’re consistently experiencing any of the symptoms above, please reach out to your doctor. A proper diagnosis is the first step to managing your symptoms as best as possible.
Our steps to a diagnosis
Pinpointing asthma triggers and finding the right treatment can feel overwhelming. That’s where our experts come in. They’ll guide you step-by-step to a proper diagnosis and plan. Here's what to expect.
- Physical exam. Typically, you’ll start with a conversation with your primary care doctor. They’ll ask about your symptoms and listen to your breathing.
- Additional testing. Testing may include a breathing study methacholine challenge test. Your doctor might order bloodwork to rule out other conditions and to test for allergies that could be connected to your asthma.
Our treatment options
While asthma can’t be cured, there are many treatments and combinations to improve everyday life. Together, we’ll make a personalized action plan that fits your lifestyle and calms symptoms.
- Controller medicine. This type of medicine is a daily maintenance inhaler to prevent and control symptoms and help stop asthma attacks from happening. Think of it as the proactive side of your action plan.
- Quick relief medicine. This treatment involves inhalers, pills, or injections that calm down asthma attacks.
- Lifestyle changes. Part of improving your asthma is avoiding its triggers. Your doctor will help with practical strategies to do just that.
- Support system. Even with the best planning, asthma attacks can still happen. It’s important to have emergency contacts set up ahead of time. If your child has asthma, this information should be shared with their school and caregivers.
- Routine checkups. Your asthma can change throughout the years. Having regular checkups with your doctor is crucial to staying on top of an effective treatment plan.
Meet our experts
More than 75 board-certified doctors supported by a compassionate, accommodating staff. All dedicated to helping you feel your best.
Why choose WellSpan for asthma care?
We understand the right health partner should be more than a caretaker. Trust and convenience matter just as much. Here's why we can help you feel better and breathe easier.
On call for you
Sometimes a question can’t wait for business hours. That’s why we have a team of triage nurses ready to take your call, hear your concerns and get you the answers you need as quickly as possible.
Advanced asthma care
For some, asthma can be tough to control. We’re equipped to help with the most modern options available, like biologics medications which can dramatically improve severe symptoms.
We’re close by
With more than 75 doctors across South Central Pennsylvania, you’re never far from an expert helping hand.
Education program
Dealing with asthma can feel overwhelming, especially for children and their families. But you're not alone in this journey. We have developed a comprehensive program designed to support individuals struggling with asthma.
Our program identifies triggers, mastering breathing techniques, and creating personalized action plans. Whether you're looking to better understand your condition or seeking strategies to manage symptoms, our program is here to help. For more information, you can talk to your doctor or call us.