Asthma Care at UVM Health
Asthma is a long-term lung condition that affects children and adults. It causes the airways to become swollen and narrowed, making breathing difficult. With the right treatment plan, most people with asthma can manage their symptoms and live active, healthy lives.
Why Choose UVM Health?
Pulmonary and critical care specialists at University of Vermont Health care for patients of all ages with asthma and other chronic breathing conditions. Whether you live in Vermont or northern New York, you can count on compassionate, high-quality care. We have the only multi-disciplinary severe asthma clinic in the region for both adults and children that includes specialty pharmacy, respiratory therapists, nurses and asthma educators.
We offer:
- Evidenced-based care: Our nationally recognized clinician-scientists lead and participate in research studies to improve asthma treatment. As a site for government- and industry-sponsored clinical trials, we provide access to promising new therapies not widely available.
- Qualified specialists: Our board-certified pulmonologists and critical care physicians deliver the highest level of care in both outpatient clinics and hospital settings. Many have advanced fellowship training in subspecialties related to asthma and airway disease.
- Pediatric asthma care: Pediatric pulmonologists at Golisano Children's Hospital at UVM Health provides expert, comprehensive care in a supportive, comforting environment. Partnering with the hospital’s specially trained Child Life specialists, we strive to ensure your child feels as safe and stress-free as possible.
Asthma Symptoms
Asthma symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may occur daily or only occasionally. Common symptoms include:
- Wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe)
- Coughing, especially at night or early morning
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness or discomfort
- Feeling tired or winded during exercise
Asthma Triggers & Related Conditions
Asthma symptoms often start after contact with a “trigger.” This can lead to an asthma attack, also called an exacerbation. Common triggers include:
- Colds or other respiratory infections
- Exercise
- Cold air
- Smoke, strong odors or air pollution
- Dust, pollen, mold or pet dander
- Stress or strong emotions
Several health conditions can make asthma harder to control. These related conditions can increase inflammation, worsen symptoms and make asthma medicines less effective.
Common conditions include:
- Obesity: Extra weight can restrict the lungs and increase inflammation, making breathing more difficult
- Chronic sinus disease: Sinus inflammation and post‑nasal drip can trigger or worsen asthma symptoms
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Acid reflux can irritate the airways and cause coughing or wheezing
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): Poor sleep and nighttime airway blockage can lead to more frequent asthma flare-ups
- Depression and anxiety: Can increase stress and make it harder to manage asthma daily
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes can affect breathing and asthma control, making close monitoring important
Addressing these conditions — through lifestyle changes, medication or specialist care — can play a key role in helping you breathe more easily and keeping your asthma well controlled.
Diagnosing Asthma
To diagnose asthma, your provider will ask about your symptoms, health history and possible triggers. They may listen to your lungs and perform breathing tests such as:
- Spirometry: Measures how quickly and effectively you can breathe air in and out of your lungs.
- Peak expiratory flow (PEF): Shows how hard and fast you can blow air out.
- Exercise or inhalation challenge tests: Checks how your lungs respond to exercise or certain inhaled substances.
These tests help confirm a diagnosis and guide your treatment plan.
Asthma Treatment
Asthma treatment focuses on improving breathing, preventing flare-ups and helping you stay active. Your treatment plan may include:
- Daily control medicines to reduce airway swelling
- Quick-relief inhalers for sudden symptoms
- Oral or injected corticosteroids during severe asthma attacks
- A written asthma action plan
Your provider will partner with you to choose medications and strategies that fit your lifestyle and help manage your symptoms confidently.
Locations Near You
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66 Park Street
Elizabethtown, NY 12932
111 Colchester Avenue
Burlington, VT 05401-1473
111 Colchester Avenue
Main Campus, East Pavilion, Level 5
Burlington, VT 05401-1473
206 Cornelia Street
Suite 307
Plattsburgh, NY 12901-2779
32 Malletts Bay Avenue
Winooski, VT 05404-1959
130 Fisher Road
MOB C
Berlin, VT 05602-9516
