What Is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic lung condition that affects your airways. With asthma, the tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs become inflamed and produce excess mucus. During an asthma attack, the muscles surrounding these airways can constrict and narrow. Tightened passageways make breathing incredibly difficult when air cannot flow freely.

While the exact cause of asthma is unknown, flare-ups are usually triggered when the immune system reacts to substances in the lungs. This can include allergens like mold, pet dander, pollen, toxins, fumes, and tobacco smoke.

Asthma Treatment and Management

At Telluride Regional Medical Center, we diagnose and treat asthma and other asthma-related conditions. Asthma symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening. This includes coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or pain, and shortness of breath. Depending on your condition, our doctors may recommend treatments such as asthma inhalers, nebulizers, or biologics to combat your symptoms. These treatment options can include both fast-acting asthma medications and long-term preventive medications.