Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America for asthma and allergy symptoms

ADULT SCREENINGS

Adults who experience breathing problems, such as coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath, can find out if asthma is taking their breath away by participating in an Asthma Screening Program. Allergists, physicians who are asthma specialists, conduct the majority of these programs.

Participants take a special lung function test that involves blowing into a tube, and meet with a physician to discuss results and to determine if they should seek a thorough examination and diagnosis. Those who already know they have asthma can talk with a specialist about their disease and efforts to keep symptoms under control.

These programs have screened hundreds of people who thought they might be at risk for asthma and its complications. Many of these people are then referred for a professional diagnosis. Free asthma screenings are performed at shopping malls, civic centers, and at health fairs.

Asthma Screenings and Education Programs Designed for Seniors

We also sponsor asthma screenings and education programs designed especially for Seniors. The education programs address the following topics:

Asthma and allergy medications and drug interactions;
Asthma and allergy aggravators;
Environmental controls for asthma and allergies;
and tools for managing asthma, peak flow meters, spacers, and metered dose inhalers.

Asthma and Allergies in Seniors

Did you know that...

Symptoms of allergic diseases, including asthma, can first appear in adult life even when people reach retirement age.
About 20 percent of adults whose childhood asthma symptoms "disappear" experience a recurrence of the symptoms once past their mid 40's.
If a person retires and moves to a new location, it is possible that in a few years, the person's body will respond with allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny nose.

By informing people about the symptoms of asthma and allergies and by offering free screenings, we can help improve the quality of life for those who suffer.

The information provided is for reference only and should not substitute for professional medical care.