Breathing Disorders Specialist

What are breathing disorders?

Breathing disorders, depending on the severity, can make breathing increasingly difficult, cause pain, and lower your quality of life. Some of the most common breathing disorders affect both children and adults:

Asthma and allergies

Asthma is a chronic respiratory issue that leads to inflammation of your airways. It’s often triggered by allergies, including environmental factors, food, and pet allergies, as well as hay fever.

Emphysema

Emphysema is most commonly caused by smoking or long-term exposure to secondhand smoke. This serious breathing disorder leads to inflammation of the air sacs in your lungs that becomes so severe, they can’t repair themselves any longer. 

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

COPD is an umbrella term that includes many types of chronic breathing disorders, including emphysema. This serious condition, often caused by cigarette smoke, makes it increasingly difficult to breathe because of damage to air sacs and airways in your lungs. 

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a severe infection of the air sacs in your lungs and can be viral, bacterial, or even fungal. Your risk of suffering from pneumonia is greater if you have a weakened immune system, which is common among older adults and children. 

Chronic bronchitis 

Chronic bronchitis occurs when you have ongoing issues with mucus buildup in your airways. This can occur because of irritation or damage to your airways or lungs, possibly due to cigarette smoke. You can even develop acute bronchitis on top of your chronic bronchitis.   

When should I see a doctor for a breathing disorder?

At Texas Pediatric Specialties and Family Sleep Center, you have access to a team of pulmonary experts, including pediatric pulmonologists, who can help you or your child get treated for the most complex breathing disorder issues. 

Come in if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Chest pain, pressure, or tightness
• “Wet” coughs that produce mucus
• Wheezing or whistling while breathing

You should also come into the clinic if your breathing disorder is affecting your sleep. Texas Pediatric Specialties and Family Sleep Center provides on-site diagnostic testing, so you can get diagnosed and started on treatment the same day. 

How are breathing disorders treated?

Your treatment plan for your breathing disorder depends on your diagnosis. Many breathing disorders are treated with one or more of the following therapies:

• Home oxygen
• Smoking cessation  
• Antibiotic or antiviral medications
• Long-acting or quick-relief inhalers
• Immunotherapy or allergy medications
• Specialized drugs to keep your airways open

Your physician at Texas Pediatric Specialties and Family Sleep Center spends time counseling you about lifestyle changes you can make to minimize your symptoms.

Book your breathing disorder evaluation online or by phone at Texas Pediatric Specialties and Family Sleep Center today.