Free Asthma Screenings Available In Chicago
CHICAGO (WBBM) -- Starting Tuesday, you can get a free asthma screening at locations around the Chicago area.
As WBBM Newsradio 780's Regine Schlesinger reports, the effort is part of Asthma Awareness month.
LISTEN: Newsradio 780's Regine Schlesinger reports
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Chicago allergist Dr. Laura Rogers says while the number of asthma deaths has been dropping in recent years, the number of cases is rising. She says the condition can impair people to varying degrees.
"Some people may not be able to exercise. Some other people can't go out in the cold air easily, which in Chicago is a big problem. Other people, if they catch a cold or something, instead of having a cold for a week, they'll have it for three weeks," Rogers said.
Now, the American College of Allergy and Immunology is offering free screenings for asthma.
"Asthma is not an easy diagnosis," Rogers said. "It's not one particular test. It's not one particular test. It's not like testing your cholesterol where you just draw your blood, and then, 'Yes, it's higher,' 'No, it's not.' Asthma requires a detailed history, as well as pulmonary function, as well as a physical exam."
The screenings will not provide a definite diagnosis, but can tell you whether you're likely to have the illness.
For a list of locations where screenings are available, click here.
