CONTACT

Your Asthma Control is Our Mission

FLOVENT: GOING, GONE!

FLOVENT: GOING, GONE!

Action Plan, Control Your Asthma!, PEF, symptoms

FLOVENT: GOING, GONE!

FLOVENT: GOING, GONE!

Background:

Flovent is an inhaled corticosteroid asthma controller medicine that is widely used to prevent asthma attacks.  It is administered using an Metered Dose inhaler (MDI).

The company that makes Flovent, GlaxoSmithKline, has announced that it will be discontinuing Flovent as of January 1, 2024.  They are replacing it with a generic equivalent, Fluticasone.

This replacement will come in the same strengths (44, 110, and 200 mcg per puff) delivered by an MDI.

Problem:

The problem is that many health insurance policies may not cover this new generic equivalent.  If you run into this, you will need to be switched to another formulation or brand of inhaled corticosteroid that is covered by your insurance plan.

Solutions:

For adults, there are a number of alternatives but there are fewer choices for children.  To help out, I have posted this equivalent dosing chart as an aide to finding the right medicine.  This information is from legitimate, nationally regarding organizations.  Feel free to share it with your doctor if there is any uncertainty about the best medication for your child.

As always, Asthmaniac is ready to help out, just grab an appointment and lets talk!

#asthmacontrolnow
#telemedicineasthmacare
#backpocketasthmadoc
#asthmaactionplan
#asthmacontroltest
#asthmacontroller
#rescueinhaler
#asthmacovid19
#childrenandasthma
#eprescription
#easthma
#peakexpiratoryflow
#peakflowmeter
#asthmaniac

 

BOOK NOW!

All Posts

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

May 23, 2024 |

Keeping a clean and dust-free home is crucial for individuals with asthma, as it helps reduce the risk of triggering asthma symptoms. But deep cleaning a house with asthma can be hard–even light cleaning of a house with asthma can be hard if the conditions are wrong....

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

May 23, 2024 |

Why do we use steroids in asthma? * Inflammation of the airways is the underlying problem in asthma * Steroids like Prednisone and Decadron are taken by mouth * Steroids like betamethasone and fluticasone are inhaled like albuterol. * Steroids shut down...

What Are Some Early Warning Signs of Asthma?

What Are Some Early Warning Signs of Asthma?

Action Plan, Control Your Asthma!, controllers, PEF, symptoms

What Are Some Early Warning Signs of Asthma?

Asthma can be life-threatening if it spirals out of control. But how do you detect asthma, and what are the early warning signs of an asthma attack? Below, we explain how to spot asthma in its early stages and what to do if you have an asthma attack.

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a disease of the respiratory system. Asthma causes your airways to become inflamed and narrower. In some cases, your lungs produce extra mucus, which causes more narrowing.
Some people have more severe symptoms than others. But although asthma can’t be cured, it can be controlled.

Asthma Causes

Asthma has many causes. The most common “triggers” for asthma are:

  • Allergies: Some allergies, like pollen and pet allergies, can trigger asthma.
  • Medication: Certain medicines such as aspirin can make asthma worse.
  • Respiratory infections: Colds, influenza, and other seasonal viruses may trigger asthma symptoms.
  • Smoking: Tobacco smoke can irritate the lungs and throat, triggering asthma.

The trigger for your asthma dictates your asthma treatment. So, you should be evaluated by a health professional if you think you have asthma.

Early Warning Signs of Asthma

If you’re new to asthma, you might not know how to recognize the condition. Early signs of asthma include:

  • Chest pain or tightness
  • Feeling breathless during exercise
  • Frequent coughing
  • SWheezing (especially in children)

You may also notice that your symptoms get worse when you have a respiratory infection. This is because your respiratory system is already inflamed and irritated. And in some cases, you might notice that respiratory infections last for much longer than expected.

If you think you might have Asthma, contact Asthmaniac for an evaluation.

Early Warning Signs of an Asthma Attack

People with asthma should know how to spot the signs of an asthma attack so they can manage the situation. The early symptoms of an asthma attack are:

  • Changes in peak expiratory flow readings: Drops in peak expiratory flow (PEF) readings should be reviewed with your doctor as they might suggest an attack is imminent.
  • Using rescue inhaler more often: If you need your rescue inhaler more than usual, you may need a medication review to prevent an asthma attack.
  • Shortness of breath: Shortness of breath and more frequent coughing both suggest your asthma isn’t under control.
  • Increased fatigue: If you’re more tired than normal, or you’re struggling with your daily activities, this may be a red flag that an attack is imminent.
  • Scratchy or irritated throat: Although a scratchy throat can be a sign of a respiratory infection, it can also be an early sign of an asthma attack.

Other warning signs of an asthma attack include chest tightness, wheezing more than normal, and trouble sleeping due to symptoms. If you’re at all concerned about asthma symptoms, book a consultation with Asthmaniac.

Emergency Signs of an Asthma Attack

All asthma attacks can be serious. However, you need to seek immediate medical attention if you develop the following symptoms.

  • You can’t get any relief from your rescue inhaler.
  • Your fingernails or lips turn blue (cyanosis).
  • You are struggling to talk, walk, or perform minimal activities.
  • Your shoulders are hunched over or your chest constricts.

Call 911 if you or your child is having an asthma attack and you can’t bring it under control.

How to Control Asthma to Prevent Asthma Attacks

To help prevent asthma attacks, you need an asthma action plan.

Your asthma action plan is a guide to help you manage your symptoms and spot when your asthma might be getting worse. The quicker you spot the warning signs of worsening asthma, the easier it is to prevent asthma attacks.
An asthma action plan is tailored to you and your medical needs. But at a minimum, it should include:

  • Asthma triggers
  • Your current asthma medications
  • Peak flow readings (if you use these)
  • Your symptoms when your asthma is under control
  • Warning signs which suggest you need to take action
  • Emergency steps to take if you have an attack

Asthmaniac can review your current asthma action plan or create one for you.

Asthma Consultation With Asthmaniac

People with asthma need to know how to manage their condition to prevent it from getting worse.

That’s where Asthmaniac, your online asthma doctor, can help. At Asthmaniac, we offer virtual appointments to help you understand your diagnosis and prevent asthma attacks. We can evaluate your current medication, write prescriptions if needed, and update your action plan.

Whether you’re a new asthma patient or you’re struggling with your asthma controla, we’re here for you. Learn the early warning signs of asthma – book a consultation now to get started.

All Posts

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

May 23, 2024 |

Keeping a clean and dust-free home is crucial for individuals with asthma, as it helps reduce the risk of triggering asthma symptoms. But deep cleaning a house with asthma can be hard–even light cleaning of a house with asthma can be hard if the conditions are wrong....

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

May 23, 2024 |

Why do we use steroids in asthma? * Inflammation of the airways is the underlying problem in asthma * Steroids like Prednisone and Decadron are taken by mouth * Steroids like betamethasone and fluticasone are inhaled like albuterol. * Steroids shut down...

How to Use an Inhaler Correctly

How to Use an Inhaler Correctly

Action Plan, Asthma Care Standards, Control Your Asthma!

How to Use an Inhaler Correctly

If you have an inhaler, you need to know how to use it properly to get the most benefit from your asthma medicine. Below, we cover the main types of inhalers and how to use them effectively.

What Is an Inhaler?

An inhaler helps to prevent asthma attacks and it relieves shortness of breath. There are four main types of inhalers. Which one you’re prescribed depends on your health needs.

  • Metered dose inhalers (MDIs): MDIs release medicine into your lungs in aerosol form in set doses. They’re a very popular type of inhaler for asthma and related conditions.
  • Dry powder inhalers (DPIs): DPIs send asthma medication into your lungs in powder form.
  • Soft mist inhalers (SMIs): SMIs release asthma medicine in a fine mist rather than aerosol form.
  • Nebulizers: Nebulizers release medicine in liquid form so that it’s absorbed very quickly by the lungs.

You may also have a rescue inhaler, which you should keep with you in case of unexpected asthma attacks.

Every inhaler comes with different potential side effects. Talk to your doctor or call Asthmaniac for an appointment if you’re unsure whether your inhaler is suitable for your needs.

Young woman wearing glasses sitting on navy sofa with hand over chest struggling to breathe waiting to take blue inhaler for asthma

How Often to Use an Inhaler

There’s no right answer to this because everyone has different health needs. Your doctor can tell you when – and how often – to use your inhaler. At Asthmaniac, we can review your medicine and check if your asthma is under control – call now for an appointment.

Let’s now break down how to properly use an inhaler, depending on which type of device you have.

How to Properly Use an MDI Inhaler With or Without a Spacer

Your MDI inhaler technique is key to getting the maximum benefit from your device, so here’s what to do.

  • If your inhaler comes with a spacer, place the device into the space first.
  • Then, shake the inhaler for around five seconds.
  • Using your thumb to support the base, hold the inhaler up and release a deep breath before using it.
  • Keep your tongue back from the chamber, but place your lips tight around the mouthpiece.
  • Breathe deep for a few seconds and hold the top down.
  • Hold your breath for another few seconds (ideally up to 10 seconds).
  • Breathe out and recap the mouthpiece (or take more puffs as directed).

Always have a doctor evaluate your technique if you’re unsure whether you’re using the inhaler correctly.

How to Use a Dry Powder Inhaler Properly

If you have a dry powder inhaler, here’s how to use it.

  • First, remove the cap from the inhaler.
  • Load the capsule or medicine into the device.
  • Let out a slow, deep breath before using the inhaler.
  • Make sure you put the mouthpiece firmly between your lips so medicine doesn’t leak out.
  • Take a deep breath in, hold it for a few seconds, then release the inhaler.
  • After another few seconds, breathe out.

Follow any specific instructions as set by your doctor.

How to Use Soft Mist Inhalers

Like other inhalers, soft mist inhalers are simple for most people to use, but here are the main steps to follow.

  • With the cap still closed, hold the inhaler upright.
  • Click the base into position and release the cap.
  • Open the cap and let out a full deep breath before using the device.
  • Put the mouthpiece into your mouth, taking care not to cover the air vents on either side of the inhaler.
  • Press the inhaler button, take a deep breath in, and continue inhaling for a few seconds.
  • Remove the inhaler, exhale slowly, and replace the cap.

If your soft mist inhaler comes with specific manufacturer instructions, always follow them.

Using a Nebulizer

If you’re using a nebulizer, breathe in slowly. Relaxed breathing will help to ensure you get the most benefit from the device.

  • Wash your hands and clean the pieces.
  • Take the medication cup and pour the liquid medicine inside it.
  • Connect the tubing and mouthpiece or mask.
  • Place the mouthpiece into your mouth or the mask over your face.
  • Breathe in and breathe out fully.

It’s a good idea to check the nebulizer is misting properly before using it, too.

Learn More About How to Use an Inhaler Properly

Using an inhaler can be tricky. However, if you have asthma, it’s important that you know how to use an inhaler correctly. At Asthmaniac, we can help ensure that your asthma is under control and that you’re on the right inhaler for your health needs. Learn more or book now by calling 720-900-0943.

All Posts

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

May 23, 2024 |

Keeping a clean and dust-free home is crucial for individuals with asthma, as it helps reduce the risk of triggering asthma symptoms. But deep cleaning a house with asthma can be hard–even light cleaning of a house with asthma can be hard if the conditions are wrong....

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

May 23, 2024 |

Why do we use steroids in asthma? * Inflammation of the airways is the underlying problem in asthma * Steroids like Prednisone and Decadron are taken by mouth * Steroids like betamethasone and fluticasone are inhaled like albuterol. * Steroids shut down...

Tezspire for Breathing Your Best!

Tezspire for Breathing Your Best!

Action Plan, Control Your Asthma!, controllers, PEF, symptoms

Tezspire for Breathing Your Best!

Tezspire Is a game-changer for Asthma Control

 

At its core, asthma is a disease of inflammation.  That inflammation is concentrated in the breathing tubes (bronchi) of the lungs.  This inflammation drives constriction of the bronchi, causing wheezing, cough, and shortness of breath.  In addition, extra mucus is produced resulting in a moist, rattly cough.

 

Inflammation Control

 

Decades ago, research studies uncovered the central role of inflammation in asthma.  Clinical studies since have shown that medicines that reduce inflammation are hugely important in controlling asthma.  Glucocorticoid steroids were found to be very powerful in shutting down this inflammation. Prednisone, a steroid taken orally, has been used to shut down this inflammation.  But prednisone has horrible side effects like opening you for bacterial infection and altering your emotions.  Plus, in kids, the liquid forms taste very bad and makes kids vomit.

 

Inhaled Steroids and Asthma

 

A form of steroid that you inhale from a puffer (metered dose inhaler or MDI) was developed that avoids the terrible side effects of oral steroids like prednisone.  Adding these inhaled steroids to the asthma action plan for moderate and severe asthma sufferers has been tremendously helpful in reducing their asthma attacks.  For best control, they need to be used twice a day, everyday, and if delivered from a MDI, a chamber (or spacer) must be used to make sure the medicine is deeply inhaled.  Without a spacer, much of the medicine ends up on the tongue and in the throat where it causes a painful yeast infection (thrush). 

 

Attacking the Inflammation Molecule

 

More recent scientific studies discovered that particular chemicals in the lining of bronchi are to blame for the underlying inflammation.  One of these chemicals, thymic stromal lymphoprotein (TSLP) triggers the release of other chemicals that activate inflammation.  Capturing and deactivating TSLP stops inflammation in its tracks.  The new drug, TezspireⓇ does just that!

 

How is TezspireⓇ administered?

 

This medication comes in a prefilled pen injector that is placed next to the skin of your abdomen or leg and activated.  The inside mechanism of the pen quickly inserts a fine needle 5 mm into your skin while the device pushes 1.9 ml of liquid medicine into the subcutaneous tissue.

 

Taking this injection once a month, Yes, ONCE A MONTH, dramatically reduces wheezing episodes and dependence on steroids.

Is TezspireⓇ  Right for Your Asthma?

If you have wheezing, asthma attacks and ER visits while already using a daily inhaled steroid, you may benefit from this new medication.  Stop struggling with your breathing and find out if TezspireⓇ should be in your action plan by making an appointment with Asthmaniac today!

Asthmaniac is designed to deliver everything you need to achieve your best asthma control.  State-of-the-Art medicine is just part of that mission.  Along with amazing medicines, Asthmaniac delivers follow-up doctor consults, digital disease assessment, prescription refills, and patient education, right on your phone.  Asthmaniac on your phone puts you in the most powerful position to keep a lid on wheezing for Life!

 

Are you ready to talk about TezspireⓇ for control of your asthma?  Book an appointment today!

#asthmacontrolnow

#telemedicineasthmacare
#backpocketasthmadoc
#asthmaactionplan
#asthmacontroltest
#asthmacontroller
#rescueinhaler
#asthmacovid19
#childrenandasthma
#eprescription
#easthma
#peakexpiratoryflow
#peakflowmeter
#asthmaniac

 

All Posts

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

May 23, 2024 |

Keeping a clean and dust-free home is crucial for individuals with asthma, as it helps reduce the risk of triggering asthma symptoms. But deep cleaning a house with asthma can be hard–even light cleaning of a house with asthma can be hard if the conditions are wrong....

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

May 23, 2024 |

Why do we use steroids in asthma? * Inflammation of the airways is the underlying problem in asthma * Steroids like Prednisone and Decadron are taken by mouth * Steroids like betamethasone and fluticasone are inhaled like albuterol. * Steroids shut down...

Asthma Proof Your Home: Identify the Hot Spots

Asthma Proof Your Home: Identify the Hot Spots

Action Plan, Asthma Care Standards, Control Your Asthma!, PEF, symptoms

Asthma Proof Your Home: Identify the Hot Spots

If you have asthma, it’s important to asthma-proof your home. This means identifying and removing asthma triggers from your environment. Many people don’t know how to asthma-proof their homes, but it’s not difficult.

In this blog post, we will discuss how to identify asthma hotspots and create an asthma action plan for your home. We will also provide tips for asthma-proofing your home so you can live a healthier life!

How to Asthma Proof Your Home

Every home is different and therefore requires its own approach to asthma-proofing. However, there are some basic steps you can follow to get started.

1. Identify Asthma Hot Spots

The first step is to identify the hot spots in your home that need attention. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) has a Healthier Home Checklist that can help you figure out where to start.

This checklist provides tips for each area of the home, such as the bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom. By going through each room and identifying any possible asthma triggers—such as dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, or pollen—you will be able to pinpoint the areas that need attention.

2. Clear Home of Dust and Dirt

Once you have identified the hot spots, the next step is to reduce the levels of dust and dirt in your home. This can be done by vacuuming carpets and upholstered furniture frequently (at least twice a week) with a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner.  You should also regularly mop floors, dust surfaces, and take rugs outside to be beaten.

3. Cover Mattresses and Pillows

Dust mites love mattresses and pillows, so it’s important to cover them with special covers that encase the mattress in an airtight layer of fabric. This will prevent dust mites from getting into the material, making your bed a much less hospitable environment for them.

4. Consider Air Purifiers

Air purifiers can help to reduce the levels of pollutants and dust in your home, helping to make it easier to breathe. Look for one with a HEPA filter that is designed specifically for asthma sufferers.

5. Keep Humidity Low

A humid home is a perfect breeding ground for mold and dust mites, so it’s important to keep the humidity levels in your home at a minimum. Invest in a dehumidifier if necessary and keep windows closed during humid weather.

You can also reduce the amount of humidity in your home by taking shorter showers and using exhaust fans when cooking.

6. Wash Bedding Weekly

Regularly washing bedding, such as sheets, pillowcases, and duvets can help to reduce dust mites from settling into your bedding. Opt for washable covers for mattresses and pillows, and wash them often. It’s also important to vacuum mattresses regularly to eliminate any dust mite debris that may have settled into the mattress.

7. Vacuum Regularly

On the topic of vacuuming, it’s important to vacuum regularly in order to reduce dust, pollen and other allergens from settling into your carpets and furniture. Look for a vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to capture the smallest of particles.

8. Be Pest Aware

Keep an eye out for common pests such as cockroaches and rodents, which can both aggravate asthma symptoms. Use traps or sprays to keep these creatures away from your home. Make sure to clean any areas where they have been seen, such as under the sink or around food containers.

9. Test Your Home For Mold

Mold can be a serious asthma trigger, so it’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of mold growth. You can do this by testing the air quality in your home with a specialized device. If you find any mold, have it professionally removed as soon as possible.

10. Restrict Smoking In Your Home

Smoke from cigarettes, cigars, or pipes can be a major asthma trigger. Make sure to restrict smoking in your home and create a smoke-free environment to minimize exposure and reduce the risk of an asthma attack.

More Tips for Asthma Proofing Your House

Following these steps will help you asthma proof your home and protect your loved ones from potential triggers. Taking these precautions can help create a safe and healthy living environment for everyone.

Additionally, make sure to inspect your house regularly and keep an eye out for any changes that may be setting off asthma triggers. Check the air filter in your HVAC system often and replace it if necessary. Keep an eye on any water damage or standing water that could lead to mold growth, and invest in a dehumidifier to help control humidity.

Finally, try to identify any possible hot spots in your home where asthma triggers may be hiding. For example, the kitchen is a common spot for dust and grease buildup, while allergens such as pet dander or pollen can accumulate in carpets and on furniture. Cleaning these areas regularly and investing in air purifiers or vacuums with a HEPA filter can help keep asthma triggers at bay.

Stay up to date with Asthmaniac Blog for more tips on asthma-proofing your home.

BOOK NOW!

All Posts

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

May 23, 2024 |

Keeping a clean and dust-free home is crucial for individuals with asthma, as it helps reduce the risk of triggering asthma symptoms. But deep cleaning a house with asthma can be hard–even light cleaning of a house with asthma can be hard if the conditions are wrong....

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

May 23, 2024 |

Why do we use steroids in asthma? * Inflammation of the airways is the underlying problem in asthma * Steroids like Prednisone and Decadron are taken by mouth * Steroids like betamethasone and fluticasone are inhaled like albuterol. * Steroids shut down...

Navigating Asthmaniac.com!

Navigating Asthmaniac.com!

Action Plan, Control Your Asthma!, PEF, symptoms

Navigating Asthmaniac.com!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 2:44 — 2.5MB)

Subscribe: RSS | More

Navigating Asthmaniac to Find Your Best Asthma Control

Asthmaniac.com is a fully digital asthma clinic designed to deliver physician consultation, disease assessment, patient education, medical refills, and follow-up care.  This is different than making an appointment in a traditional clinic for asthma care.  So, how does it work?

Navigate to the website

Asthmaniac.com is a website that contains the links and information you will need to manage your asthma.  Simply navigate to Asthmaniac.com in your browser.  Once you are on the webpage, there are several areas you will likely use frequently.

Book Now

Pressing this button takes you to the scheduling page where you can choose from two selections: Inhaler Refill or Asthma Consultation.

If you are an established patient and simply need a refill of your rescue or control inhaler, select Inhaler Refill.  You will be taken to the calendar where you select the day and time of your appointment and make payment.  A confirmation will arrive in your email inbox along with a link to measure and report your ACT score and Peak Expiratory Flow.

If you are a new patient (new to Asthmaniac.com), select Asthma Consultation.  You will be taken to the calendar where you will select the day and time of your appointment and make payment. A confirmation will arrive in your email inbox along with a link to a medical history form that collects information about your past problems with asthma and any other health disorders.

Menu Bar

The row is directly below that Asthmaniac Motto: “Your Asthma Control is Our Mission”. 

The Menu Bar contains links to the most important areas of Asthmaniac.com.

Home:  This selection takes you back to the home page from your current page.

Blog:  This section is loaded with patient education covering a wide and ever-expanding number of topics essential for obtaining and keeping control of your asthma.  A list of blog posts is stacked along with the right side of this page, along with live links to corresponding podcasts.  These podcasts are also available on major podcasting platforms making them easy to consume and share!

Your Online Asthma Doctor:  This section describes the very simple structure and focus of Asthmaniac.com.  The components Asthmaniac delivers to you are described in six blurbs with links to pages with more information about each.

About:  This section describes the concept of asthma primary care – the core medical solution to assisting you to keep your asthma controlled.

ACT:  This link takes you to the Asthma Control Test page where you will learn about this test, how it is used to assess your asthma control, and contains a link that walks you through the test, with Freddy’s help.  The Asthma Control Test (ACT) score is used at every appointment and between appointments to give you feedback on your disease status.

Social Media Links

Links to Facebook, Twitter and Instagram appear in the top tab.  You can jump to each of these social media sites by clicking the icon for each.

The twitter feed is loaded with the latest research articles about asthma.

Footer

At the bottom of each page, you will find links for:

The Asthmaniac phone number; and

The Asthmaniac email  link;

In addition, there are links for:

The Home page;

The “Your Online Asthma Doctor” page;

The “Established Patient Process” page which describes how established patients receive their interval care;

The “New Patient Process” page which describes how new patients receive their first medical session;

The “Blog” page, which is filled with patient education materials;

The “Privacy” page which describes the Asthmanic privacy policy;

The “ACT” page which jumps you to the Asthma Control Test page.

Asthmaniac is Online Asthma Care

Asthmaniac is designed to deliver everything you need to achieve your best asthma control and with it, the best lung function, greatest exercise capacity and more quality sleep.  Doctor consults, digital disease assessment, prescription refills, and patient education, right on your phone, puts you in the most powerful position to keep a lid on wheezing for Life!

Are you ready to take control of your asthma?  Book an appointment today!

#asthmacontrolnow
#telemedicineasthmacare
#backpocketasthmadoc
#asthmaactionplan
#asthmacontroltest
#asthmacontroller
#rescueinhaler
#asthmacovid19
#childrenandasthma
#eprescription
#easthma
#peakexpiratoryflow
#peakflowmeter
#asthmaniac

 

BOOK NOW!

All Posts

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

May 23, 2024 |

Keeping a clean and dust-free home is crucial for individuals with asthma, as it helps reduce the risk of triggering asthma symptoms. But deep cleaning a house with asthma can be hard–even light cleaning of a house with asthma can be hard if the conditions are wrong....

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

May 23, 2024 |

Why do we use steroids in asthma? * Inflammation of the airways is the underlying problem in asthma * Steroids like Prednisone and Decadron are taken by mouth * Steroids like betamethasone and fluticasone are inhaled like albuterol. * Steroids shut down...

How Can Asthmaniac Address Your Asthma Concerns?

How Can Asthmaniac Address Your Asthma Concerns?

Control Your Asthma!

How Can Asthmaniac Address Your Asthma Concerns?

Asthma challenges for Patients

Asthma as a disease is not evenly spread across the U.S. There are definitely hotspots as shown in this study:  https://www.aafa.org/asthma-capitals/ Geography doesn’t change the basic problem in the lungs. How do we find out the biggest challenges in dealing with these lungs? We need to talk to asthma sufferers. This survey revealed some of the big problems asthma patients face:  https://www.aaaai.org/about-aaaai/newsroom/news-releases/asthma Let’s dig in and see what they found. The study was titled:  NEW STUDY SHEDS LIGHT ON THE CHALLENGES AND BARRIERS OF SEVERE ASTHMA MANAGEMENT Surveys were administered to asthma sufferers and the results were summarized. The paper reported that asthma sufferers:
  1. Struggle to understand how best to manage asthma on a day-to-day basis;
  2. Often have feelings that the public does not appreciate how seriously asthma impairs their health;
  3. Share concerns about medication safety, especially ICS; and,
  4. Have substantial emotional impacts of having severe asthma, especially anxiety and reluctance to hospitalization.
When I set out to improve asthma outcomes with Asthmaniac, I reflected on 31 years of medical practice when developing priorities for how to proceed.  I appreciated for a long time that asthma is a complex chronic disease.   In order for patients to succeed in controlling it, they require understanding and must act on that understanding in order to take action at the right time.   I designed the blog on Asthmaniac to address these core topics, using text, podcasts and videos.   I wondered when a group of asthma sufferers would be surveyed about the biggest issues they face, and this paper reports just such concerns. For each topic area discovered in this study, I will discuss strategies Asthmaniac uses to address them.
  1. Day-to-day management of asthma.
  2. Public perceptions of asthma
  3. Concerns about medication, especially ICS safety
  4. Emotion impacts on social and health status.
Point 1.   We have known for decades that patients need tremendous support in managing daily symptoms.   Ambulatory expiratory flow (PEF) and symptoms surveys (ACT) are a few methods devised to put numeric tools in patients’ hands that reflect the biologic status of their airways.   It is believed that such tools allow patients to take the correct action, earlier when acute bronchospasm starts.  These tools require specific education and in most primary practices, time constraints get in the way of delivering that education as often and as personalized as needed.   Asthmaniac solution: 
  1. Simplify Asthma Action Plan; 
  2. Make Action Plan readily accessible on the smartphone; 
  3. Enhance knowledge competence as described 
4.B.2 below (see Blog and Podcast directory; make directory visible on social media sites and on all pages of Asthmaniac.com). Point 2.  Public perceptions of asthma.   The challenges of a pandemic complicate public messaging about any particular disease.   There are no scientific studies showing us how public  under appreciation of asthma affects employment, social stigmatisation, school adherence, physical activity adherence.   In absence of data, we leverage intuition and forge ahead.   Asthmaniac solution: 
  1. Develop content for a page that can become indexed by internet search methods that underscores the impacts of asthma on patient life (see new page titled Social Impact of Asthma). 
  2. Address these perceptions with each patient to at least reinforce that these impacts are real, challenging, and generally under-appreciated (add this question to our pre-post patient insights survey).
Point 3.  Medication safety.   Patient concern about inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) seems to predominate.   These concerns are not necessarily the same as those we physicians are thinking about.   Nonetheless, ICS is essential in moderate and severe asthma control.   To assure compliance with its use, we must address these concerns.   Asthmaniac solution: 
  1. Talk about the role of steroids generally and ICS specifically in asthma; 
  2. Reinforce the goal of prescribing the lowest amount needed for each patient to avoid safety and side effect concerns; 
  3. Consider the use of new pharmacologic agents in severe patients (like in e-asthma) that will allow reduction in oral and inhaled steroid use.
Point 4.   We know from large samples of patients with chronic disease that the presence of one disease is highly associated with a second one.   Considering the anxiety asthma sufferers share about losing control of their asthma, it is not surprising that they would be at higher risk for other chronic diseases linked to anxiety.   So, WE MUST GET THIS ANXIETY UNDER CONTROL.   In absence of any controlled studies, I believe areas to attack in gaining control of asthma anxiety are:
  1. Controlling asthma:  Asthma attacks are very frightening.  Preventing them will go a long way in allowing patients to settle emotionally.
  2. Dramatically increased patient understanding of their disease and how to manage it daily will also be settling.  Knowledge deficits are specifically identified by patients as a major problem (see point 1).
Asthmaniac solution: 
  1. make sure patients can access (through affordable, phone based care) rescue inhalers, oral steroids, controller medication and trigger medication (the core functionality of Asthmaniac.com) 
  2. Continually improve knowledge competence for self-management through phone/computer based contemporary media that is easily and affordably consumed (podcasts, video-casts, and online webinars that are announced to patients with email and text notifications). 
  3. Assess anxiety in each patient and develop a personalised response plan for each patient.  This will have to be a new component in the pre-post patient insights survey.
I believe specifically and clearly addressing the concerns highlighted in the group of asthma sufferers surveyed in this study will lead to better outcomes for all asthma sufferers that can access the Asthmaniac.com method.  Complete the subscription form on the right if you’d like to get an email when I post a new podcast and blog entry. Remember our hashtag: #asthmacarenow! And keep Breathing Easy!
#asthmacontrolnow #telemedicineasthmacare #backpocketasthmadoc #asthmaactionplan #asthmacontroltest #asthmacontroller #rescueinhaler #asthmacovid19 #childrenandasthma #eprescription #easthma #peakexpiratoryflow #peakflowmeter #asthmaniac
 
BOOK NOW!

All Posts

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

May 23, 2024 |

Keeping a clean and dust-free home is crucial for individuals with asthma, as it helps reduce the risk of triggering asthma symptoms. But deep cleaning a house with asthma can be hard–even light cleaning of a house with asthma can be hard if the conditions are wrong....

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

May 23, 2024 |

Why do we use steroids in asthma? * Inflammation of the airways is the underlying problem in asthma * Steroids like Prednisone and Decadron are taken by mouth * Steroids like betamethasone and fluticasone are inhaled like albuterol. * Steroids shut down...

High-Deductible Health Plan? Online Asthma Is Perfect!

High-Deductible Health Plan? Online Asthma Is Perfect!

Action Plan, Control Your Asthma!, PEF, symptoms

High-Deductible Health Plan? Online Asthma Is Perfect!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 3:38 — 3.4MB)

Subscribe: RSS | More

High Deductible? Asthmaniac Is Best Value!

✓   You have a Health Insurance Policy

✘   But, it has a high deductible

????  Asthmaniac was made for you!

????  Affordable $50 doctor visits

✓   State-of-the-Art Asthma Care

✓   All online!

 

High-Deductible Health Insurance

The Accountable Care Act (Obamacare) created changes in the U.S health insurance market that allowed many more people to enroll in a health insurance plan.

The majority of these policies have a deductible that is large.

A deductible is the amount that you have to pay out-of-pocket before the policy kicks in.  This amount is usually many thousands of dollars!

This comes as a shock the first time you try to use your health insurance to pay for a doctor visit, a prescription, or worse, get admitted to the hospital where your bill quickly grows to tens of thousands of dollars. 

Ok, so like me, you have to pay out-of-pocket for the first several thousand dollars of medical services you need.

That means you will be shopping for the best value in medical products. 

Best value means: highest quality + lowest price.

In my three decades of practicing medicine, I’ve seen so many  patients with run-away, preventable disease whose illness got out of control because they did not got to a doctor earlier due to cost concerns.

That recurring theme motivated me to create a ‘clinic’ that IS affordable BUT delivers state-of-the-art medical care for you.

Asthmaniac is that clinic, specially focused on delivering the medical stuff asthma sufferers need.

 Stuff like:

  • prescribed inhaler refills and controller medicines;
  • a personalised action plan to guide them in responding to the symptoms;
  • an affordable online/on-phone doctor to coach them to greater health; and
  • a convenient, organised, accessible place to learn more about asthma.

I deliver this package through Asthmaniac which you can access on your smartphone, tablet or home computer.  

I price doctor visits at $50. 

If you have  well controlled asthma, you need 4 doctors visits a year to make sure that you have all of your needed medicines prescribed, that your asthma hasn’t changed into a more severe type, and to make sure you know how to respond if your breathing gets worse.

So fifty dollars per visit, thats..

$200 per year.

A doctor in your back pocket, coaching you to greater confidence and less anxiety about your asthma.

And if you have an HSA (Health Savings Account) with your high-deductible plan and need a receipt to reimburse yourself for your out-of-pocket Asthmaniac appointments –

I will make sure you have it!

That’s Asthmaniac!

 

Let’s get started!

Complete the subscription form on the right if you’d like to get an email when I post a new podcast and blog entry.

Remember our hashtag: #asthmacarenow!

And keep Breathing Easy!

#asthmacontrolnow
#telemedicineasthmacare
#backpocketasthmadoc
#asthmaactionplan
#asthmacontroltest
#asthmacontroller
#rescueinhaler
#asthmacovid19
#childrenandasthma
#eprescription
#easthma
#peakexpiratoryflow
#peakflowmeter
#asthmaniac

 

BOOK NOW!

All Posts

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

May 23, 2024 |

Keeping a clean and dust-free home is crucial for individuals with asthma, as it helps reduce the risk of triggering asthma symptoms. But deep cleaning a house with asthma can be hard–even light cleaning of a house with asthma can be hard if the conditions are wrong....

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

May 23, 2024 |

Why do we use steroids in asthma? * Inflammation of the airways is the underlying problem in asthma * Steroids like Prednisone and Decadron are taken by mouth * Steroids like betamethasone and fluticasone are inhaled like albuterol. * Steroids shut down...

Is Your Asthma e-Asthma? New Medicine!

Is Your Asthma e-Asthma? New Medicine!

Action Plan, Control Your Asthma!, PEF, symptoms

Is Your Asthma e-Asthma? New Medicine!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 3:41 — 3.5MB)

Subscribe: RSS | More

GET YOUR EOSINOPHIL TEST!

* e-Asthma is category of severe asthma

* Patients with e-Asthma have difficulty getting asthma control with usual treatment

* e-Asthma responds well to a new type of injected medicine

* In such patients, this new medicine can decrease their asthma attacks and allow them to use less oral steroid.

     e-Asthma is a type of severe asthma that responds well to a new kind of control medicine that you inject under skin, usually monthly.

     Severe Asthma means:

  1. You’ve been on a high dose of inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and a long-acting bronchodilator or theophylline for in the past year; and/or
  2. You’ve been treated with steroids (like Prednisone) by mouth for more than half of the past year.

Wondering what “high dose” ICS means?

 

Definition of high dose*
ICS Age 6 – 12 years Age > 12 yrs
Beclomethasone (Qvar) ≥ 320 mcg/day ≥ 1000 mcg/day
Budesonide (Pulmicort) ≥ 800 mcg/day ≥ 1600 mcg/day
Ciclesonide (Alvesco) ≥ 160 mcg/day ≥ 320 mcg/day
Fluticasone (Flovent) ≥ 500 mcg/day ≥ 1000 mcg/day
Mometasone (Asmanex)  ≥ 500 mcg/day ≥ 800 mcg/day
*European Respiratory Society: Eur Respir J Feb 2014 43:343-373

This new type of injectable asthma medicine has been shown to dramatically:

1. Reduce the number of asthma attacks you will have

2. Reduce how much oral steroid (like Prednisone) and ICS you need to stay controlled.

How do we know if your asthma is the type that will respond to this medicine?  You would be likely to get a good response to this new medicine if:

  1. Your eosinophils are elevated in your bloodstream, and
  2. Your allergy testing shows that you are triggered by seasonal allergens.

So, let’s review:

If 

You have been on high dose ICS (see above) or oral steroid for more than half of the year,

AND

You have skin allergy tests that show a problem

THEN

I would recommend having your blood drawn to measure your eosinophil count.

If your eosinophil count is elevated (35-700 IU/mL), you would be a good candidate to try this new type of medicine.

What medications would be considered?

Here is a list of subcutaneous medications that can be ordered for e-Asthma:

 

Omallzumab (Xolair) injected every 2 or 4 weeks depending on your eosinophil count and age

Dupilumab (Dupixent) injected every 2 weeks

Mepolizumab (Nucala) injected every 4 weeks

Benralizumab (Fasenra) injected every 4 weeks for 3 doses, then every 8 weeks.

Tezepelumab (Tezspire) injected every 4 weeks.  This medicine does not require any history of elevated eosinophils or prior testing for allergic asthma.

These medications are quite new and it will take some time for general practitioners to become educated about prescribing them.

But, they are available RIGHT NOW and if you are suffering from severe asthma, they could be a really good solution for getting your severe asthma under control.

Complete the subscription form on the right if you’d like to get an email when I post a new podcast and blog entry.

Remember our hashtag: #asthmacarenow! And keep Breathing Easy!

#asthmacontrolnow
#telemedicineasthmacare
#backpocketasthmadoc
#asthmaactionplan
#asthmacontroltest
#asthmacontroller
#rescueinhaler
#asthmacovid19
#childrenandasthma
#eprescription
#easthma
#peakexpiratoryflow
#peakflowmeter
#asthmaniac

 

GET YOUR EOSINOPHIL TEST!

All Posts

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

May 23, 2024 |

Keeping a clean and dust-free home is crucial for individuals with asthma, as it helps reduce the risk of triggering asthma symptoms. But deep cleaning a house with asthma can be hard–even light cleaning of a house with asthma can be hard if the conditions are wrong....

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

May 23, 2024 |

Why do we use steroids in asthma? * Inflammation of the airways is the underlying problem in asthma * Steroids like Prednisone and Decadron are taken by mouth * Steroids like betamethasone and fluticasone are inhaled like albuterol. * Steroids shut down...

High-Deductible Health Plan? Online Asthma Is Perfect!

Asthma Follow Up Care: Why You Need It!

Control Your Asthma!

Asthma Follow Up Care: Why You Need It!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 2:55 — 4.1MB)

Subscribe: RSS | More

* Follow-up Care is Essential to good asthma control.

* Follow-up allows determination of asthma severity.

* Other disorders that affect your breathing are detected early.

* Rescue medication refills are provided

* Your Asthma Action Plan is updated.

Having your asthma diagnosed is the first step to getting control.

But after treatments are prescribed, follow-up becomes the key to avoiding asthma attacks and minimizing your asthma symptoms

Follow-up is so important because asthma is not a disease that is ‘cured’ in the usual sense.

Instead, our goal is to manage it.

Control it.

So that you can be active.

So you can sleep well.

So you don’t have to make emergency room visits “routine”.

So, you don’t have to experience life-threatening asthma attacks!

Managing asthma means regular, repeated Dr. visits.

We know from research studies that the best interval for these reassessments is about every 3 months.

At these appointments: We work on a number of points.

.. First, I evaluate your asthma severity to see if it has changed.,

.. We discuss your response to your asthma treatment plan and consider revising it if needed.

.. We discuss new information relative to your asthma, such as new medications that may be helpful for controlling your symptoms.

.. If needed, I order changes in the strength or frequency of your controller or trigger medications.

.. When we have your new plan finalized, I transmit your medication refills  to the pharmacy of your choice, electronically.

.. Then, we review your Asthma Action Plan and I

Send to your phone!

Before we sign-off, I schedule your next appointment, 3 months away.

In this way, Asthmaniac helps you stay on top of your asthma.

Asthmaniac gives you the tools to keep your asthma in control

and for you to become the

 expert of your asthma!

#asthmacontrolnow
#telemedicineasthmacare 
#backpocketasthmadoc
#asthmaactionplan
#asthmacontroltest
#asthmacontroller
#rescueinhaler
#asthmacovid19
#childrenandasthma
#eprescription
#easthma
#peakexpiratoryflow
#peakflowmeter
#asthmaniac
Learn More

All Posts

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

Asthma House Cleaning Tips

May 23, 2024 |

Keeping a clean and dust-free home is crucial for individuals with asthma, as it helps reduce the risk of triggering asthma symptoms. But deep cleaning a house with asthma can be hard–even light cleaning of a house with asthma can be hard if the conditions are wrong....

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

May 23, 2024 |

Why do we use steroids in asthma? * Inflammation of the airways is the underlying problem in asthma * Steroids like Prednisone and Decadron are taken by mouth * Steroids like betamethasone and fluticasone are inhaled like albuterol. * Steroids shut down...