Asthma Specialist

Regional Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Center

Allergy and Immunology & Allergy & Asthma located in Kingsport, TN & Johnson City, TN

Asthma affects 20 million Americans and is one of the leading causes of chronic illness in children. Though symptoms vary significantly, ongoing medical care is needed to keep the chronic health condition under control. At Regional Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Center, Shailee Madhok, MD, the leading physician in the field, and the team diagnose and treat asthma in children and adults. To schedule an appointment, contact one of the offices in Kingsport and Johnson City, Tennessee; and Abingdon, Virginia, by phone or online today.

Asthma Q&A

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic lung condition that causes inflammation and swelling in the airways of the lungs, making it harder to breathe. For some people, asthma symptoms are mild and occur occasionally. However, for others, asthma symptoms are severe and occur on a regular basis. 

No matter the severity of your asthma, ongoing medical care is essential to manage the disease and prevent an asthma attack, which can be life-threatening.

Researchers are still investigating the underlying cause of asthma, but it may be due to genetics and environmental factors. However, in many cases, asthma is an immune system response to an environmental allergen, such as pollen or ragweed. 


What are asthma symptoms?

Asthma symptoms vary in severity and frequency. Common symptoms include:


  • Shortness of breath
  • Wheezing on the exhale
  • Tightness or pain in the chest
  • Coughing 


Though allergens are a common cause of asthma symptoms, it’s not the only asthma trigger. You may develop asthma symptoms during exercise, when you have a respiratory infection (cold or flu), or from a change in the weather. 

Knowing your asthma trigger is an essential part of your treatment plan. 


How is asthma diagnosed?

The team at Regional Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Center specializes in the diagnosis of asthma and conducts comprehensive evaluations to confirm or rule out a diagnosis. During the exam, the team asks detailed questions about symptoms, medical and family history, and then performs a physical exam.

They may conduct diagnostic tests to rule out other lung conditions. To diagnose asthma, the team at Regional Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Center may perform a number of tests, such as:


  • Pulmonary function tests
  • Spirometry
  • Bronchoprovocation tests


In children six and younger, the team may prescribe asthma medication to assist in diagnosis because typical diagnostic tests are often inconclusive in children at this age. 

The team may also perform allergy testing to confirm or rule out allergy-induced asthma.  


How is asthma treated?

The specialists at Regional Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Center develop individualized treatment plans for asthma based on the frequency and severity of symptoms, as well as the underlying triggers. Your treatment plan may include long-term medications to prevent an asthma attack, as well as rescue medication to take during an asthma attack.

If allergies are responsible for your asthma, the team also provides care to reduce allergy symptoms and exposure to allergens, which may include allergy shots to reduce symptoms and improve asthma control. 

For comprehensive and compassionate care for you or your child’s asthma from an experienced team, contact Regional Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Center by phone or online today.