The University of Toledo Medical Center Department of Allergy and Immunology will hold a free asthma screening events on Wednesday, June 12, at the Perrysburg Heights Community Association.
The event, which is open to the public, begins at 5:30 p.m. and is open to children and adults.
“Asthma affects 25 million Americans, but it can sometimes be missed or misdiagnosed,” said Dr. Sherlyana Surja, a board-certified allergist at UTMC. “Adults and kids who have undiagnosed asthma may end up in the hospital and asthma attacks can occasionally be fatal. It’s really important to diagnose and treat asthma patients appropriately.”
Asthma causes a person’s airways to become inflamed and narrow. Common symptoms include wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. In addition to the risk from acute asthma attacks, untreated asthma can over time cause permanent lung damage.
At Wednesday’s screening event, individuals will be given a survey and those whose answers suggest they may be suffering from asthma will be offered a lung function test.
UTMC clinicians also will screen people for nasal allergies and exercise-induced breathing problems.
Additionally, UTMC pharmacists will be on hand to answer medication or inhaler questions.
“We want this event to raise people’s awareness of asthma and offer education and resources,” Surja said. “This is one way we can help contribute to a healthier community.”
The Perrysburg Heights Community Association is located at 12282 Jefferson St. in Perrysburg.
