What Type of Doctor Prescribes for Asthma?

Asthma is a complicated condition, as its severity varies by person. There are three primary types of doctors who can help treat asthma, and two of them are specialists.

Facts

• Asthma is a condition that affects the function of your airways or bronchial tubes. Although a general family doctor can treat asthma in various age groups, more severe asthma should be treated by a specialist, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA).

Allergist

• According to the AAFA, approximately 50 percent of adult asthmatics have allergy-induced asthma. You should seek an allergist if your symptoms are frequent and interfere with day-to-day activities.

Pulmonologist

• The AAFA reports that a pulmonologist can treat asthma. A pulmonologist is certified in treating lung diseases, including asthma. If your asthma is severe but not allergy-induced, you should see a pulmonologist.

Treatment

• Regardless of the type of asthma doctor you choose, he will determine the severity of your symptoms and prescribe one or a combination of long-term and short-term medications. Long-term medications are designed to prevent symptoms, while short-term medications treat asthma flare-ups.

Tips

• Seek the most appropriate doctor for your own unique situation. If you are not satisfied with treatment by a general doctor, then you should see an allergist or pulmonologist.