Respiratory Issues

Respiratory Issues services offered in Sacramento, CA


If you struggle to get a full breath of air due to respiratory issues, see the experts at Greenhaven Family Practice in Sacramento, California. Osteopathic medicine physician Scarlett Lu, DO, offers highly effective, holistic treatments for common respiratory problems to help you breathe more effectively and avoid complications. Call the office to schedule an evaluation today.

Respiratory Issues Q&A

What are respiratory issues?

Respiratory issues affect your respiratory system, including your lungs, airways, blood vessels, and muscles that power the lungs. The system moves oxygen throughout your body and removes carbon dioxide and other wastes. 

Respiratory issues can cause the following symptoms:

  • Wheezing
  • Gasping for air
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Coughing
  • Narrowed airways
  • Chest tightness or pressure

You might also have nasal congestion, a sore throat, sneezing, and other symptoms of common respiratory illnesses.

What are examples of respiratory issues?

Examples of respiratory conditions include the following:

  • Asthma
  • Allergies
  • Pneumonia
  • Bronchitis
  • Flu
  • Colds
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Lung cancer
  • Cystic fibrosis
  • Pleural effusion
  • COVID-19
  • Tuberculosis 

See the Greenhaven Family Practice providers at the first sign of a problem to reduce the risk of worsening symptoms and severe complications. 

How does my provider diagnose respiratory issues?

A Greenhaven Family Practice specialist reviews your symptoms, lifestyle habits, and medical history to determine if you have respiratory issues. They complete a physical exam by evaluating your eyes, ears, nose, throat, breathing, heartbeat, and more. 

You might undergo a nasal or throat swab, TB test, lung function tests, allergy testing, a chest X-ray, or other diagnostic tests to diagnose your condition and determine how to treat it.

How are respiratory issues treated?

Common treatments for pulmonary issues include:

  • Over-the-counter medications
  • Prescription medications
  • Inhalers
  • Breathing treatments
  • Allergy shots
  • Allergy avoidance 
  • Rest and fluids
  • Not smoking

It’s also important to keep the air in your home clean by changing air filters often, vacuuming regularly, and keeping your home free of mold.

Eat nutritious foods, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep, and minimize stress. If you have severe allergies, Dr. Lu might prescribe emergency epinephrine for severe allergic reactions. 

If needed, she can refer you to another specialist or inpatient hospital care for extreme breathing difficulties.

She follows up with you to ensure your treatment is effective and is always available to answer your questions. 

If you’re experiencing respiratory issues, call the Greenhaven Family Practice office or request an appointment online today.