Gavini Pediatrics - Asthma and Allergies

Gavini Pediatric & ADHD Clinics 26850 Providence Parkway, Suite 300, Novi, MI 48374 :: 248.348.4200 www.ADHDclinic.com :: www.YourKidsDoctor.com
Asthma & Allergy: Environmental Control What is Asthma: The constriction and inflammation of your airways. Asthma cannot be cured and can and often does change over time. This means regular visits to your doctor to ensure that your treatment plan is current as adjustments may be needed as your asthma changes. What are Allergies: Allergies are your body's reaction to a foreign substance that has entered your body. Your body responds by producing antibodies to combat the foreign substance, even if it isn't something that is harmful to you. Allergy severity varies from person to person and can sometimes be life-threatening. Allergies are not curable, however there are a number of treatments available to help relieve and control allergy symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms: Asthma: Shortness of breath Tightness of the chest or chest pain Wheezing Coughing or wheezing attacks that are worsened by a case of the flu or respiratory infection Allergies: Congestion Swelling of an area that has come in contact with the allergen Hives Itchy Skin Watery Eyes Rash Runny Nose Wheezing
Manage your environment Even in clean homes dust is present. Dust is comprised of many different particles, however it is typically the dust mite component that the majority of people are allergic to. Dust mites thrive in warm humid areas and are found in mattresses, pillows, carpets, and upholstered furniture. It is impossible to remove them completely as they thrive in areas where there are people as they eat dead skin cells. Special dust mite covers are available to help limit the exposure an individual has to dust mites. These can be found at allergystore.com Another way you can manage allergens and improve the air quality of your home/office/school is to purchase an air purifier or air cleaner. If you suffer from Asthma that is trigger by cold dry weather, then a humidifier during the winter will help to alleviate symptoms and assist in your overall Asthma treatment plan (consult your doctor before purchasing a humidifier). Humidifiers can come in a variety of sizes from a personal table top to the larger versions that can do an entire house. Air Purifiers: Another way to assist in managing your asthma and allergies is to purchase an air purifier that removes a majority of airborn triggers for asthma and allergies. We reccomend the Honeywell 50250 air purifier that was rated as one of the top ten air purifiers on TopTenReviews.com
WARNING! Read carefully before purchasing an air purifier! Those purifiers who don't have filters that need to be replaced, like the Ionic Breeze, produce Ozone which is harmful to individuals with Asthma.
Treatment If you have Asthma or Allergies, schedule an appointment with your doctor to help develop a treatment plan that works for you.