Along with the welcomed warmer weather, allergy season is now well underway. After the emergence of tree pollens in March, by May we will start to see grass pollen which often lasts through July, followed by ragweed.
“For some, allergies are an uncomfortable inconvenience that can cause runny noses, sneezing, itchy skin and other mild symptoms,” says pulmonologist Keith Goldstein, MD, FCCP, a member of the Combined Medical Group of RWJBarnabas Health and Rutgers Health and affiliated with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset. “However, allergies can also trigger symptoms of asthma, making it more difficult to breathe.”
Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways, or the tubes that carry air in and out of your lungs. With asthma, the airways can become inflamed and narrowed at times, particularly when exposed to certain allergy triggers or respiratory infections.
Symptoms of asthma include:
- Chronic sneezing, swollen glands and other cold-like symptoms
- Frequent coughing that lasts longer than three weeks
- Shortness of breath
- Tight chest
- Wheezing after exercise
“Asthma is a lifelong condition, but one that is very manageable with the appropriate care. With the help of a pulmonologist, medical treatment along with healthy habits can keep asthma symptoms in check, greatly reducing the risk of serious complications,” says Dr. Goldstein.
RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group’s experienced, board-certified pulmonologists provide comprehensive testing, diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of lung diseases and respiratory conditions including asthma. To find a Medical Group pulmonologist near you, visit our physician locator or call 888-724-7123.
Triple board certified in pulmonary care, critical care and internal medicine, Dr. Goldstein specializes in common and complex pulmonary disorders as well as lung cancer care. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Goldstein, call 732-893-0200.