Which specialist treats asthma?

Asthma causes episodes in which the airways narrow and become inflamed, making breathing harder. Wheezing, cough, chest tightness and shortness of breath are common presentations of asthma, although symptoms can vary between people and from one episode to another.

A GP can assess your symptoms, listen to your chest and arrange breathing tests or referral. A pulmonologist focuses on airway and lung conditions. An allergist may be useful when allergic rhinitis, house dust mite allergy or another trigger appears connected with flare-ups.

Book a review if symptoms recur, wake you at night, limit exercise or work, or require your reliever more often than expected. Bring every inhaler, explain how often you use it, and demonstrate your technique; a device can seem ineffective when it is used incorrectly.

Your clinician may adjust preventer treatment, check triggers and provide a written action plan. Avoid smoke and known irritants, and follow the prescribed plan even during symptom-free periods unless your clinician changes it.

Seek emergency help for severe shortness of breath, inability to speak comfortably, blue or grey lips, confusion, exhaustion, or symptoms that are worsening despite your reliever and action plan. Do not drive yourself if breathing is seriously impaired.

Should I see a pulmonologist or allergist? Which triggers should I avoid? How can I check inhaler technique? What is my action plan if wheezing or chest tightness worsens?