Asthma

Lady in park using inhalerAsthma is a chronic lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways. It causes periods of wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and coughing. Quick-relief inhalers are the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment to people with asthma and other lung diseases. Asthma can also be treated with long-term control medications. For financial assistance with managing your condition, see our page on Free & Discounted Services.

Managing Asthma

Managing Asthma can be a confusing experience for newly diagnosed patients and their caregivers. To learn about the specific kinds of providers that might make up your health care team, as well as the services, programs, support groups, and organizations that can help you manage your asthma, visit the Managing Asthma page.

Support Groups & Forums

These sites allow patients to discuss their experiences with illnesses, treatments, and other health matters. Any information or opinions posted are those of the forum users themselves and are not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Mobile Apps & Tools

Mobile apps and tools give you easy-to-use information and resources that can help you get and stay healthy. For tips on choosing apps, see How to Choose a Good Health App by The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.

AsthmaMD allows users to log their asthma activity, medications, and causes in a diary, which can be sent to participating physicians. Free. iOS.

Respiri tracks your symptoms, medication use and breathing data to assess your asthma risk. You can set reminders, view graphs of past data, and share your data with other users or physicians. Free. iOS, Android.

Propeller uses a sensor to track your inhaler use, including date and location. Physicians can access this data remotely to monitor your symptoms. The app is free, but the sensor must be purchased separately. iOS, Android.

 

Resources selected by Carrie Forbes, MLS, Laupus Health Sciences Library, East Carolina University.
Last reviewed March 5, 2024

Last updated March 5, 2024 at 2:11 pm