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Asthma/Asthma/COPD Diagnosis

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Expert: - 9/30/2010


Question
I suspect that I may have asthma or COPD. I want to see a doctor for an
evaluation but I have bronchitis right now. Will tests such as spirometry be  
useless because of the bronchitis? Should I wait until I have recovered to
seek help? Thank you for your help.  

Answer
Hi Jennifer,

You need to provide me with background information about your medical history before I can make an assessment.

Your medical history:
Age:
Weight:
Where you live (city/state):
Medications you are on:
Smoking history:
Occupation (exposure to chemicals/dust, etc.):
Have you had bronchitis before?
If so, when was the last episode?
Do you ever wake up at night short of breath, coughing or wheezing?
Have you been hospitalized in the past with a breathing problem?

This should give me a better basis for guiding you.

Sincerely,

Marc

Asthma

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Volunteer

Marc Rubin, RPh Asthma Educator

Expertise

I have worked directly with patients as well as caregivers for over 30 years. Have made presentations throughout Illinois educating school nurses as well as the teaching and coaching staff of public schools about asthma, and how they should respond to these students needs. Presented a public education program on asthma through the US Department of Public Health. Specialize in helping guide asthmatic patients to take control of their disease in order to live a near-normal, fully active life.

Experience

Practicing pharmacist for 34 years, specializing in asthma for past 7 years. Statewide education to nurses, teachers and athletic coaches regarding asthma. In addition, and closer to home. my wife and daughter both have asthma, and my son has exercise induced bronchospasm. I'm also on the advisory board of a medical education company, Emmi Solutions, and directly involved in the creation of public education programs for asthma, COPD and diabetes.

Organizations
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) / Sports Medicine Committee, American Thoracic Society (ATS). Chicago Asthma Consortium / Professional Development Committee, Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago: Development Committee for AE-C prep class, and presenter.

Publications
AAAAI PowerPoint on the new guidelines for EIB (Exercise Induced Bronchospasm)

Education/Credentials
BScPharm, RPh, AE-C (NAECB Certified asthma educator), NIPCO Certified Respiratory Care Pharmacist

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