Living with adult-onset asthma brings a slew of challenges that can upend your routine and leave you second-guessing your activities. You never know when the next attack will hit, and the potential triggers run the gamut. Harmless things like a morning jog, a burst of laughter, or even your pet’s fur can leave you gasping and reaching for that inhaler. The need to be constantly vigilant about your triggers, symptoms, and medications can wear you down over time.
That is why having an asthma doctor by your side is crucial. An asthma doctor can provide the right care, tools, and guidance to help you rein in your symptoms and live well with your condition. Having one in your corner essentially helps make managing your condition a less stressful part of your day-to-day life.
But here is the tricky part: There is more than one type of doctor who treats adult-onset asthma, so how do you know which one is the right expert to guide your care? Let us learn about the different types of asthma doctors for adults, what sets each one apart, and where to find a trusted one in Austin, Texas.
Primary Care Physicians (PCPs)
Many adults first turn to their primary care physician when asthma symptoms start to surface. As frontline healthcare providers, these doctors are well-equipped to diagnose and manage mild to moderate cases, offering guidance on how to avoid triggers and manage symptoms day by day.
However, the training and scope of practice of PCPs are limited only to general respiratory care. If your asthma is frequent, worsening, or severe, your PCP will likely refer you to a specialist, particularly a pulmonologist, for advanced care. Think of your primary care doctor as the gateway to specialized support.
ENT Specialists (Otolaryngologists)
ENT doctors, also known as otolaryngologists, specialize in treating conditions of the ears, nose, and throat, areas that are closely tied to respiratory function.
An ENT doctor plays a supportive role in your asthma care, particularly if you have chronic sinus issues, nasal polyps, or persistent post-nasal drip. These upper airway problems can make asthma difficult to control, so addressing them is an essential part of managing your condition. Your treatment might involve medical therapy, in-office procedures, or surgery, depending on the severity of your symptoms.
Your ENT doctor may also collaborate with a pulmonologist to provide coordinated, comprehensive care.
Allergists
Allergists play a key role in asthma management when allergies are a primary trigger. These doctors help identify specific allergens through testing and offer targeted treatments.
Your asthma doctor can prescribe medications, teach you allergy avoidance strategies, and offer other solutions designed to tackle the source of your symptoms and help you gradually reduce your reliance on allergy medications.
Your allergist may collaborate with a pulmonologist to ensure you receive a well-rounded and effective treatment.
Pulmonologists
Pulmonologists are the go-to specialists for adult-onset asthma care. With their specialized diagnostic tools and in-depth knowledge of the complex nature of asthma, pulmonologists are highly equipped to provide effective solutions and improve disease outcomes.
If your asthma is severe or difficult to treat, your pulmonologist can help you find the right combination of medications to ensure better symptom control and stave off asthma attacks. If you have a coexisting medical problem like obesity or a chronic form of acid reflux (GERD), your pulmonologist can collaborate with your primary care physician and the other specialists on your care team to address both conditions and ensure medication compatibility.
In addition to providing medical care, your pulmonologist can teach you lifestyle strategies as well as breathing exercises and techniques to help you improve your lung function and maximize the benefits of your treatment plan.
Think of your pulmonologist as a strategic partner in your long-term respiratory health, working to keep you out of the hospital and help you restore your quality of life.
Trusted Asthma Doctors for Adults in Austin, TX
If you are searching for the most trusted asthma doctors for adults in Austin, Texas, visit us here at Austin Pulmonary. We are proud to have board-certified and highly experienced pulmonologists on our team, who have built a solid reputation by providing top-quality, personalized care and delivering excellent treatment outcomes.
Whether you are newly diagnosed or have been living with asthma for years, our team is here to help you feel better, breathe easier, and live a long, healthy, active life—without limits.
For more information or to schedule a consultation with one of our pulmonologists, call our pulmonary clinic nearest you or use our secure appointment request form.
We look forward to serving you!
