FLOVENT: GOING, GONE!

FLOVENT: GOING, GONE!

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) and form (MDI).

Problem:

The problem is that many helath 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

 

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...

Asthmaniac Blog

Asthmaniac Blog

* Asthmaniac.com is my online asthma clinic 

* Asthmaniac is designed to be affordable, convenient, and reliable.

* Asthmaniac follows national quality standards developed at NIH

* Asthmaniac uses your phone to make your care convenient and engaging

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

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 are used to...

Asthma Primary Care Online!

Asthma Primary Care Online!

Asthma Primary Care Online!

Asthma Primary Care:

A Comprehensive Guide to Online Visits

Introduction:

Living with asthma requires consistent care and management to ensure a healthy and active life. Asthma primary care plays a pivotal role in this journey, offering a personalized approach to address the unique needs of individuals with asthma. In this blog post, we’ll delve into what asthma primary care entails, its goals, the topics covered in primary care visits, the frequency of these visits, and how telemedicine is transforming the landscape of asthma care.

What is Asthma Primary Care?

Asthma primary care is a specialized branch of healthcare dedicated to managing and treating asthma. The primary care provider collaborates with patients to create a tailored treatment plan that addresses their specific symptoms, triggers, and lifestyle factors. The goal is not only to control asthma symptoms but also to enhance overall quality of life.

Goals of Asthma Primary Care:

1. **Symptom Control:**
– Asthma primary care aims to achieve and maintain optimal control over asthma symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

2. **Education and Empowerment:**
– Patients are educated about their condition, including triggers, medications, and lifestyle adjustments. Empowering individuals with knowledge enhances their ability to manage asthma effectively.

3. **Preventive Strategies:**
– The focus is on implementing preventive measures to reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks. This may include lifestyle modifications and adherence to prescribed medications.

Topics Covered in Asthma Primary Care Visits:

1. **Symptom Review:**
– Patients discuss their current symptoms, any changes since the last visit, and factors influencing their asthma.

2. **Medication Management:**
– Evaluation of medication effectiveness, potential side effects, and adjustments to the treatment plan if needed.

3. **Trigger Identification:**
– Identifying and addressing environmental and lifestyle triggers that may exacerbate asthma symptoms.

4. **Lifestyle Recommendations:**
– Providing guidance on lifestyle modifications, including exercise routines, dietary considerations, and stress management.

Frequency of Asthma Primary Care Visits:

The frequency of asthma primary care visits varies based on individual needs. In general, individuals with well-controlled asthma may have routine check-ups every three to six months. Those experiencing more frequent symptoms or changes in their condition may require more frequent visits.

Telemedicine in Asthma Primary Care:

Advancements in technology have paved the way for telemedicine to play a crucial role in asthma primary care. Online visits offer a convenient and accessible way for individuals to connect with their healthcare providers without the need for in-person appointments. Through video consultations, patients can discuss symptoms, receive medication adjustments, and access expert guidance from the comfort of their homes.

Summary:

Asthma primary care is a cornerstone in the management of asthma, focusing on personalized care, education, and preventive strategies. With Asthmaniac’s integration of telemedicine, individuals can now access quality asthma care conveniently, ensuring that their unique needs are addressed promptly and effectively. Embracing the evolution of healthcare delivery, asthma primary care through telemedicine is a testament to the commitment to improving the lives of those living with asthma.

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

 

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...

Asthmaniac Blog

Asthmaniac Blog

* Asthmaniac.com is my online asthma clinic 

* Asthmaniac is designed to be affordable, convenient, and reliable.

* Asthmaniac follows national quality standards developed at NIH

* Asthmaniac uses your phone to make your care convenient and engaging

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

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 are used to...

Phone Doctor Visits: They Work For Asthma Control!

Phone Doctor Visits: They Work For Asthma Control!

Phone Doctor Visits: They Work For Asthma Control!

*  Quality Asthma care depends on self-management by patients.

*  A large part of my role as your physician is teaching you these self-management skills.

*  Crucial to these skills are techniques you will use to assess:

*  Your Symptoms (Asthma Control Test)

*  Your Lung Function (Peak Expiratory Flow)

*  We will discuss your self-assessments by phone rather than in-person.

*  These phone visits and your frequent use of the Asthmaniac website are designed to keep your asthma controlled while avoiding illness exposure and the inconveience of travel and waiting rooms

 

Asthmaniac is based on the National standards for asthma care.

Those standards tell doctors to teach their patients how to assess their everyday symptoms and lung capacity.

Years of research has led to the creation of a solid symptom assessment tool (Asthma Control Test or ACT).   This is a survey that you can complete yourself and then report to me.

Research has also shown that lung performance or how well you are able to breath out (Peak Expiratory Flow or PEF), can be measured using a simple, pocket-sized flow meter.

In my Asthmaniac clinic, I ask patients to use a simple flowmeter to record their number several times each week.

I instruct how this number is used in conjunction with your Action Plan to best manage your symptoms.

I use ACT score in planning updates to your medications, their dosages, and your Action Plan.

The great thing about having these two proven methods of assessing your asthma is that we can conduct our entire asthma appointment on the phone!

Yes!

On the phone!

That means you can get your Asthmaniac appointment on a lunch break, walking down the street, or wherever you are.

One place you won’t be is sitting?

A doctor office waiting room – waiting to catch a virus!

Phone appointments: a key convenience of Asthmaniac!

Grab an appointment and we can get your asthma care optomized!

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

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...

Asthmaniac Blog

Asthmaniac Blog

* Asthmaniac.com is my online asthma clinic 

* Asthmaniac is designed to be affordable, convenient, and reliable.

* Asthmaniac follows national quality standards developed at NIH

* Asthmaniac uses your phone to make your care convenient and engaging

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

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 are used to...

Can Asthma Be Cured Permanently?

Can Asthma Be Cured Permanently?

Can Asthma Be Cured Permanently?

Asthma affects nearly 25 million Americans. It’s one of our most common health conditions and it can be very difficult to live with. But is there such a thing as an asthma cure? Below, we consider the different treatments for asthma and how sufferers might prevent asthma attacks.

What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a long-term lung condition. It causes the airways to narrow, swell, and produce extra mucus, making it difficult to breathe.

There are various types of asthma, such as exercise-induced asthma and allergic asthma. Some individuals have more severe forms of the disease than others. And in some cases, asthma may be life-threatening or severely impact your quality of life.

Asthma Symptoms

Asthma symptoms vary. The most common symptoms include:

  • Chest tightness
  • Coughing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Wheezing

More severe symptoms include blue-tinged lips and nails, nighttime breathlessness, and chest pain. Consult your doctor if you’re experiencing these symptoms as they may require urgent treatment.

Asthma Causes

There are multiple causes of asthma. Common asthma causes or “triggers” include:

  • Air pollution: Tobacco smoke and air pollution can trigger asthma.
  • Damp: Mold and damp conditions can irritate the lungs and cause asthma symptoms.
  • Exercise: Some sufferers develop symptoms after intense – or mild – exercise.
  • Occupational exposure: Asthma may be triggered by exposure to chemicals at work.
  • Pets: Allergies to pet hair (such as dog or cat hair) can cause asthma symptoms.
  • Viruses: Seasonal respiratory viruses, like flu, can trigger asthma flares.

But can asthma be cured permanently? Let’s take a look.

Is Asthma Curable?

The short answer? Unfortunately, no.

Asthma is incurable, meaning it’s a lifelong condition. It’s not all bad news, though. Most people with asthma can successfully control their symptoms and live a full life. Let’s consider how you might manage your asthma and avoid attacks.

How to Manage Your Asthma

Asthma management typically involves:

  • Identifying asthma triggers
  • Monitoring your symptoms
  • Taking asthma medication
  • Reviewing your medication regularly

Here are various strategies you can use to manage your asthma more effectively. For personalized advice, reach out to Asthmaniac, the online asthma doctor, today!

Young woman sitting on sofa with hand on neck chest tightness due to asthma symptoms

Asthma Action Plan

The cornerstone of asthma management is the “asthma action plan”.

Your action plan sets out, in writing, what medicines you take and what to do if you’re experiencing a flare. It helps you identify if symptoms are getting worse and when you should seek medical help.

Not only does a plan help you manage your asthma, but it makes it easier for others to support you. For example, you can give your child’s school a copy of their plan. This way, teachers know who to contact in an emergency.

Inhalers

Inhalers are the most common asthma medicine. They can prevent asthma symptoms or relieve them when they do occur.

  • Asthma patients often have preventative inhalers. These inhalers are used to stop symptoms from occurring.
  • Most asthma patients will also have a quick-acting or “rescue” inhaler. You take this during an attack.

It’s important that you’re taking the right inhalers, at the right dose, to manage your asthma.

Medication

Other medications are available, especially if inhalers don’t control your asthma well enough. Your doctor might recommend anti-inflammatory medicines, biologic injections, or steroids in tablet form.

Exercise

Exercising within safe limits could improve your fitness levels. Increased fitness means there’s less stress on your heart and lungs. Some patients, especially those with exercise-induced asthma, might benefit from graded exercise.

It’s important you don’t overdo exercise or training. Consult a doctor before exercising with asthma.

Lifestyle Changes

Making some general lifestyle changes might help reduce asthma symptoms. For example, you might:

  • Avoid damp or moldy places
  • Change your exercise routine
  • Limit exposure to busy crowds during flu season
  • Quit smoking

Asthma Triggers

Avoiding triggers can really help. If you have specific triggers – such as dust mites – then limiting your exposure should be part of your plan. Many patients can avoid, or at least reduce asthma symptoms by simply avoiding triggers.

Natural Remedies

Some patients find natural remedies helpful. Examples of natural remedies include:

  • Breathing exercises
  • Herbal supplements
  • Massage
  • Meditation
  • Mindfulness

Anxiety and stress can worsen asthma symptoms because they increase your heart rate. Reducing stress and anxiety could help you manage asthma.

Take Control of Your Asthma

While there’s no cure for asthma, it can be managed. What you need, though, is the right asthma medicines and an effective action plan.

That’s where the online asthma doctor can help. Whether you need an asthma review or a prescription, we’re here for you. Schedule a consultation today and take control of your asthma!

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...

Asthmaniac Blog

Asthmaniac Blog

* Asthmaniac.com is my online asthma clinic 

* Asthmaniac is designed to be affordable, convenient, and reliable.

* Asthmaniac follows national quality standards developed at NIH

* Asthmaniac uses your phone to make your care convenient and engaging

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

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 are used to...

No Insurance? Asthmaniac Will Help You!

No Insurance? Asthmaniac Will Help You!

No Insurance? Asthmaniac Will Help You!

No Insurance is Not a Problem at Asthmaniac!

Got asthma?

⇨ No Insurance?

Asthmaniac was made for you!

Affordable $50 doctor visits

State-of-the-Art Asthma Care

 All online!

 

No Insurance = No Problem

Asthmaniac was designed to deliver asthma care to asthma sufferers that:

.. don’t have insurance

.. don’t have a doctor

.. have too much anxiety because this.

 I will be your asthma doctor.

I charge an affordable, fair price for:

.. having your doctor on your smartphone

.. making sure you have rescue inhalers

.. making sure you have state-of-the-art medicine for asthma control

.. making sure you KNOW how to manage your asthma day-to-day

.. making sure you have access to the latest medicine for asthma

.. making sure you have the best tools for self-management

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.

Fifty dollars per visit.

$200 per year.

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

Uninsured Asthma Care.

A core feature of Asthmaniac!

Remember our hashtag: #asthmacarenow And keep Breathing Easy!

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

 

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...

Asthmaniac Blog

Asthmaniac Blog

* Asthmaniac.com is my online asthma clinic 

* Asthmaniac is designed to be affordable, convenient, and reliable.

* Asthmaniac follows national quality standards developed at NIH

* Asthmaniac uses your phone to make your care convenient and engaging

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

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 are used to...

6 Signs Your Asthma Is Getting Worse

6 Signs Your Asthma Is Getting Worse

6 Signs Your Asthma Is Getting Worse

If you have asthma, you might be used to coughing and wheezing sometimes. And if you have severe asthma, you may experience breathing difficulties more often than sufferers with a milder condition. 

That being said, your body will give you signs if your asthma isn’t properly managed – and if your condition is getting worse. Here’s a look at why asthma symptoms can get worse and how you can bring your asthma under control again.   

Does Asthma Get Worse?

It’s not uncommon for asthma to get worse at times. This may be during an isolated incident, such as an asthma attack, or it might last for a longer period.

When asthma gets worse, you might experience a sudden onset of more severe symptoms. Or your symptoms may worsen over a longer period of time – such as a few weeks or even months. 

If there’s a gradual onset of worsening symptoms, the changes can be so subtle that they’re hard to notice at first. However, it’s crucial that you know how to spot when your asthma is playing up so you can take decisive action. 

Why Has My Asthma Suddenly Got Worse?

Things that make your asthma worse are known as “asthma triggers”. When you know your asthma triggers, it’s easier to work with your doctor to find ways to bring quick relief. 

Here are the most common reasons why people with asthma experience flare-ups.

  • Allergens: If you’re sensitive to tobacco fumes, dust mites, pollen, or other allergens, exposure to these allergens can cause asthma attacks.
  • Respiratory infections: When you’re recovering from a cold or flu, your airways are more irritated than usual, which may worsen your asthma.
  • Exercise: Increasing your activity levels too quickly might trigger an asthma attack.
  • Medication: Some pain medications might cause an asthma flare-up.

Other asthma triggers include mold, stress, damp, and even changes in weather conditions

Six Signs of Asthma Worsening

Person in white top holding a blue inhaler with a hand over their chest

At Asthmaniac, we can devise a treatment plan to help you bring your condition back under control. If you recognize any of these symptoms of asthma getting worse, book a consultation with us now. 

1. Shortness of Breath 

Shortness of breath is a clear sign that your asthma isn’t under control. This is especially true if you notice breathing problems at rest or during activities which are normally manageable for you. 

Any shortness of breath should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

2. Using Your Inhaler More Than Usual

Are you using your regular inhaler (or quick relief inhaler) more than normal? This is a sign that your medication isn’t working for you as effectively as it should be. 

And even if you’re not using your inhaler more than usual, but it’s not as effective at relieving your symptoms, your asthma is acting up. 

3. Activity Limitations

Every asthma sufferer has different limitations. What’s strenuous exercise to one person could be easily manageable to another. It’s important you know what’s manageable for you so you can track if your condition is interfering with your normal daily activities.

For example, if you can normally carry groceries but you can’t manage the trip without breathlessness, your asthma may be getting worse. Or if you can’t walk or climb stairs as usual, then this is a warning sign to pay attention to.

If your asthma gets in the way of your normal daily activities, then your condition is not under control. 

4. Nighttime Wheezing and Coughing

Do you wake up during the night due to wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath? If so, then your asthma could be acting up. 

To be clear, it’s not uncommon to occasionally wake up feeling a little out of breath or wheezy. But it shouldn’t happen often. If you’re reaching for a quick relief inhaler during the night once or twice a week, you need your asthma medication reviewed. 

5. Reduced Peak Flow Readings

Your “peak flow” shows how well your lungs are functioning. Your asthma may be getting worse if:

  • Your peak flow measurements are significantly lower than usual.
  • There are noticeable variations in readings from day to day.

Any change in peak flow readings should be discussed with a clinician. 

6. Chest Tightness

Chest tightness is hard to describe because it feels different for everyone. However, when your chest is “tight”, you might feel like you can’t breathe in or breathe out fully. You may feel like there’s a band across your chest, and it could even be painful to breathe. 

If you have chest tightness, especially at rest, your asthma medication may need to be reviewed. 

What to Do If Your Asthma Is Acting Up

Is your asthma getting worse? You don’t need to put up with it. 

At Asthmaniac, we want to give you back confidence in your breathing. We want to bring your asthma back under control so you can enjoy life without stressing over your condition. We can evaluate your asthma medicine, identify your common triggers, and work out an action plan to get you feeling better. 

It all starts with a telemedicine consultation. Contact us to learn how Asthmaniac can help!

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...

Asthmaniac Blog

Asthmaniac Blog

* Asthmaniac.com is my online asthma clinic 

* Asthmaniac is designed to be affordable, convenient, and reliable.

* Asthmaniac follows national quality standards developed at NIH

* Asthmaniac uses your phone to make your care convenient and engaging

Steroids in Asthma: Why We Need Them?

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 are used to...