Originally published May 22 2005
Free asthma screening tests to be offered in the U.S.
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology will be offering free asthma screening tests at malls, civic centers, and other public places across the the United States this spring in an effort to identify those Americans suffering from asthma who might not know it. According to Dr. Emily Senay, the screening is very simple, consisting of a questionnaire and a non-invasive test that involves breathing into a tube.The testing sites will refer those diagnosed with asthma to doctors in their area. Some warning signs of asthma include shortness of breath, wheezing, or sometime just a persistent cough. Triggers for an asthma attack include cold weather, pollen, drugs, food additives, exercise, and environmental pollutants.
Millions of Americans suffer from asthma, including many who don't know they have it.
So this spring, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology is offering free asthma screening tests across the United States.
Medical correspondent Dr. Emily Senay dropped by The Early Show with some details.
Asthma can be very dangerous, reports Senay, adding, "We know that it leads to 5,000 deaths a year.
There are two million emergency room visits as a result of asthma, 500,000 hospitalizations.
And along with that comes a lot of people who live uncomfortably, whose lives are affected by it.
prevents them from doing things they want to do.
"It's serious on a lot of different levels.
Many people don't realize they have asthma."
The good news is that many good treatments are available, and those stricken with asthma can get their lives back.
For the ninth year, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology is offering those free asthma screening tests at malls, civic centers, and other public places.
The asthma screening itself is simple, says Senay.
At the site, you will be given a questionnaire.
Then you will be given a test that involves breathing into a tube.
"It's totally non-invasive, very easy to do," explains Senay.
Also at the testing sites, you can be referred to a doctor who, if you are not well-controlled, can help you get your situation under control.
What are the warning signs of asthma?
# A lot of people have a cough only; they don't even wheeze.
They don't realize that's a symptom of asthma.
And of course, wheezing is the classic symptom.
In some high-risk areas, they've really improved the rate of ER visits and hospitalizations.
All content posted on this site is commentary or opinion and is protected under Free Speech. Truth Publishing LLC takes sole responsibility for all content. Truth Publishing sells no hard products and earns no money from the recommendation of products. NaturalNews.com is presented for educational and commentary purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice from any licensed practitioner. Truth Publishing assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material. For the full terms of usage of this material, visit www.NaturalNews.com/terms.shtml