RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — The Richmond and Henrico Health Districts are observing Asthma Awareness Month in May, encouraging residents to seek diagnosis and care if they are experiencing asthma symptoms.
A spokesperson for the heath districts said symptoms include chest tightness or pain, wheezing when exhaling, trouble sleeping caused by shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing. Symptoms can worsen due to a cold or the flu.
The American Lung Association has emphasized the connection between asthma and climate change, since climate change is causing extreme heat, “contributing to poor air quality, increased allergens, extreme weather events and intense wildfires,” each of which can worsen asthma symptoms.
The health districts encourage Richmond and Henrico County residents experiencing symptoms of asthma to reach out to a primary care or other physician to receive diagnosis and treatment.
Residents can get help connecting to a primary care physician, regardless of insurance status, by visiting the health districts’ website.
