Asthma Specialist

Two River Allergy and Asthma Group

Jun Yang, MD

Allergy & Immunology Practice & Allergist serving Tinton Falls, Middletown Township, Holmdel, and Coltsneck, NJ

Asthma is a chronic condition that affects 15 million adults and children in the United States. It’s also the most common chronic childhood disease, affecting more than six million children. Allergens, exercise, or cold air may trigger asthma. At Two River Allergy and Asthma Group in Tinton Falls, New Jersey, board-certified allergist and immunologist, Jun Yang, MD, can help identify your asthma triggers to reduce asthma attacks. To schedule a consultation to get help for your asthma, call the office or book an appointment online today.

Asthma

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that affects the airways, or bronchial tubes, in your lungs. With asthma, you always have inflamed airways, and certain triggers may increase airway swelling, as well as muscle tightness that leads to episodes of coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing. 

Your asthma triggers may include:

  • Allergens
  • Infections
  • Exercise
  • Cold air
  • Stress
  • Air pollutants and irritants (smoke)

For some, asthma is a mild nuisance. However, for others, asthma is a chronic problem that affects daily life. Dr. Yang at Two River Allergy and Asthma Group is an experienced allergist and can help you identify the allergen or other substance that triggers your asthma reaction.

What are asthma symptoms?

Asthma symptoms vary in type and severity. But recognizing the early symptoms of your asthma may help prevent an asthma attack. Early warning signs that your asthma may be worsening include coughing, changes in breathing, or feeling more tired. 

Signs and symptoms of an acute asthma attack include:

  • Coughing
  • Wheezing 
  • Chest tightness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Increased breathing rate

Dr. Yang recommends using a peak flow meter to measure how well air moves in and out of your lungs. 

What happens during an asthma attack?

During an asthma attack, your airway passages become swollen and narrow and produce a thick mucus. At the same time, the muscles around your airways tighten, called bronchospasms, causing your airways to become even narrower. 

How do I control my asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition, but you can take steps to control your breathing and prevent an asthma attack. To maintain control over your asthma:

  • Visit Dr. Yang regularly
  • Take all your prescribed medication
  • For children, follow a written asthma action plan
  • Use a peak flow meter to monitor your lung function or your child’s

Identifying your asthma triggers also helps you gain control over your asthma. Everyone’s asthma triggers are different, and Dr. Yang at Two River Allergy and Asthma Group can help you identify your triggers.

What can I expect during an asthma trigger evaluation?

You can expect a comprehensive evaluation when you visit Dr. Yang to get help finding your or your child’s asthma triggers. During the exam, he reviews your personal history, including medical and family history, and information about your home and school or work environment. He also conducts a complete pulmonary function test in his office. 

To confirm or rule out allergens as your asthma trigger, he performs skin allergy testing or laboratory testing. Once Dr. Yang identifies your triggers, he works closely with you to develop a plan to avoid the triggers to minimize your risk of an asthma attack. 

Dr. Yang recommends you take your asthma medications as prescribed, which includes long-term inhalers to control inflammation and rescue inhalers to manage an asthma attack. 

Dr. Yang also offers biologics for the treatment of moderate to severe asthma. These medications target the antibodies and inflammatory cells to disrupt the pathway that leads to lung inflammation. 

For help managing asthma, contact Two River Allergy and Asthma Group by phone or online today.