Asthma

Michael Marcus, MD of Ped Pulm Maimonides Medical Center explains what asthma is and how it affects the lungs. He describes how asthma occurs when the lungs react abnormally when exposed to a number of common environmental catalysts: ex. Allergens (pollen, dust, mold), and cigarette smoke. This reaction makes the lungs develop blockage making it more difficult for the child to breathe leading to coughing and wheezing. He discusses which children have greater risks of getting asthma when they have RSV( respiratory syncytial virus) infections, such as premature babies. He talks about ways to prevent illness of premature babies like a new vaccine, Synagis. Treatments such as inhalers and nebulizers can help improve breathing and increase wheezing. He discusses which children should use nebulizers vs. inhalers based on age and other factors. He speaks about best ways to deal with asthma attacks and how to define the degree of severity of asthma. Lastly he discusses asthma medications: rapid acting reliever medications (emergency use) and controller medications (decreasing inflammation in lungs), which are used more chronically. For more information, please visit www.DrMDK.com