Goals of Therapy Asthma Action Plan Control Medications   - Corticosteroids   - Non-Steroidal Anti-      Inflammatory   - Theophylline Prevention Medications   - Leukotriene Modifiers   - Long-Acting Beta2-Agonists Rescue Medications   - Short-Acting Beta2-Agonists   - Anticholinergics Peak Flow Inhalers   - Proper Spacer Usage

Peak Flow Asthma is a chronic lung disease, one that cannot be cured and can be potentially life-threatening if not managed properly. When you have asthma, the air passages in your lungs are very sensitive and can be inflamed and swollen. In addition, certain triggers can cause the muscles of the air passages to squeeze, resulting in narrowed air passages. This process is called bronchoconstriction. Triggers can also cause the air passages to produce extra mucus, making it harder to breathe. Asthma symptoms can be triggered by particles known as allergens. For many people, allergens-such as pollen, dust, or mold-are usually harmless. For many people with asthma, however, it is a different story. The body reacts to these particles as dangerous invaders. Symptoms can worsen, resulting in an asthma attack. Ultra-sensitive air passages can be more easily irritated by things other than allergens. Exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke, perfume, and air pollution can sometimes trigger asthma attacks. In addition, a cold, the flu, or a virus can cause asthma flare-ups-as can exercise, weather changes, very cold air, and even stress. Scientific studies show that bronchial (airway) inflammation is present in all asthmatics even if they do not outwardly exhibit symptoms. Although there is no known cure for asthma, there are steps you can take to minimize the severity and the frequency of symptoms. Such steps typically include: Limit your exposure to known asthma triggers Take asthma management medicines as prescribed by your provider. Ongoing monitoring of your asthma with tools such as a "Peak Flow Meter" You and your provider will work together to identify the specific triggers that affect you. You can then find ways to plan ahead to avoid exposure to your asthma triggers. Although asthma is not curable, working closely with your provider can help ensure that it is well controlled. Monitoring your Asthma at Home To monitor your asthma at home, it's helpful to use what is called a peak flow meter. A peak flow meter is a portable, inexpensive, hand-held device used to measure how air flows from your lungs in one "exhalation." In other words, the meter measures your ability to push air out of your lungs. Many patients who have asthma benefit from the use of a peak flow meter. A peak flow meter can help you when your asthma is getting worse. Asthma sometimes changes gradually. Your peak flow may show changes before you feel them, allowing your provider to adjust your treatment plan prior to the development of a worsening condition-making an emergency room visits and/or hospitalizations less likely. " A peak flow meter may help you and your provider identify causes of your asthma at work, home or play. It can play a role in helping parents determine what might be triggering their child's asthma. A peak flow meter can also be used during an asthma episode. It can help you assess the severity of the episode; decide when to use your rescue medication; and decide when to seek emergency care. Your asthma health care provider will develop your individualized Asthma Care Plan based upon your peak flow meter readings) and symtoms.

Online Resources Both our Kentucky and Indiana offices can be reached by calling 800-999-1249 or 502-429-8585. Process a credit card payment online via a secure payment form. Your Online Source for Medical Assistance. Office Locations Metro Louisville/Southern IN East End South End Jeffersontown Downtown Chamberlain / Brownsboro Rd. Jeffersonville New Albany Adjoining Counties Bullitt County – Shepherdsville Shelby County – Shelbyville Oldham County – Lagrange Other KY Offices Lebanon Campbellsville Somerset Monticello Other IN Offices Madison

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