Author Archive

Andrew: Dr. Gower, so, we talked about the worried parents, but certainly a child who's aware that they're having trouble breathing and they're being asked to take these medications. What do you say to the child? And if we have some listening, what would you say to them about what their life can be like ... Full story

You know, asthma is a health condition that can affect anybody, a child, an adult, someone whose life is pretty average. And even someone who stretches their breathing to the limit, like one of the world's top athletes: World and Olympic record holder Jackie Joyner Kersee competes in both the long jump and heptathlon; has earned three gold, one silver, and two bronze ... Full story

Andrew: Dr. Gower, one of the things that any parent would wonder about, and I think we heard from John earlier about their child being at the emergency room, is when is it an emergency? Maybe not certainly the first initial diagnosis, but now they've been to the emergency room one time or they've been ... Full story

I'd like to introduce you to a man with asthma who by no means lets it keep him on the sidelines. Chad Brown of the Seattle Seahawks football team is one of the best defensive linebackers in the NFL. He has played in the Super Bowl; been chosen for the NFL Pro Bowl twice; and voted by his Seahawk team members ... Full story

Andrew: Dr. Gower, we have joining us John, who is in Belleville, Illinois. John, do you have a child with asthma? John: Yes, I've got a 3-and-a-half year old. Andrew: And I understand there's ... Full story

Aging and increasing attacks--what can you do to control them? Camille: I have asthma attacks quite often now that I'm getting older. One thing I don't understand, I can live with the asthma, but I have this rattle in my chest all the time, and I was wondering, will that death rattle ever ... Full story

Andrew: Adult consumers are seeking information when they have these health conditions. And parents when they're concerned about their children. And there's a lot of information out there, but often someone goes to a primary care doctor - maybe an HMO, maybe not - and there's a tendency ... Full story

Rick: I know that compliance with taking drugs is a big issue with asthma patients and you mentioned the anti-inflammatories, Dr. Stempel. What does that come down to on a day-to-day basis? What does someone have to do to be where they need to be in terms of the drug dosage to control asthma? Dr. Stempel: The ... Full story

Andrew: Is there a connection between asthma and this type of rhinitis you're talking about? I also heard that there could be a connection with gastric reflux and could affect the upper respiratory system too. So maybe you could help us understand that. ... Full story

Andrew: What advice would you give to people who may be hearing this who really don't know whether their doctor is knowledgeable? How do they bring that up? How do they dialog, let's say, with a primary care doctor about these treatments? Dr. Ayars: I think that what they can do is show their knowledge and go ... Full story