Severe Asthma Infusion Centers

With local infusion centers across the country, Severe Asthma patients requiring ongoing biologic infusions or injections relax in privacy and comfort during treatment.
Interested in choosing IVX?

Intentionally designed for Severe Asthma patients.

Private Suites

Guaranteed for all patients, with leather recliners and chairs for guests

On Your Schedule

Local centers offer flexible scheduling, including evenings and weekends

Goodbye Waiting

Greeted by name at check-in, patient suites are always ready when you arrive

Sit Back and Relax

In-room streaming options so you can catch up on your favorite shows

Caring for those with Severe Asthma.

Simply put, patients with Severe Asthma who need ongoing infusion or injection treatment deserve better options for when, where and how they receive care.

Located in the communities where people live and work, IVX Health serves those with complex chronic conditions like Severe Asthma by delivering high-quality, personalized care in a private, comfortable setting so patients can continue to live their best lives.

What Is Asthma?

Asthma causes inflammation of the airways, which leads to excess mucus production and airway narrowing. Asthma symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, tightness in the chest, and long-lasting symptoms resembling a cold.

What Is Considered Severe Asthma?

According to the American Lung Association, about 5 to 10% of the 25 million people in America with asthma have a severe form of this medical condition.

There are three types of severe asthma: eosinophilic asthma (EA), allergic asthma and non-eosinophilic asthma.

A patient who has severe asthma is someone using oral corticosteroids, the highest dose possible of inhaled corticosteroids and a second controller, but still has asthma symptoms.

How is Asthma Diagnosed and Treated?

To ensure an accurate diagnosis, individuals should seek treatment from an experienced allergist or pulmonologist. Tests include:

  • A Spirometry Test, where patients breathe forcefully into a tube that measures how quickly and the amount of air the patient exhales.
  • The Exhaled Nitric Oxide Test involves patients breathing into a tube to measure the amount of nitric oxide gas they have in their breath.

Asthma medications work by interrupting the production of the cells and antibodies that are responsible for the onset of the symptoms associated with severe asthma.

How Does Severe Asthma Infusion and Injection Therapy Work?

Allergens cause the immune system to make immunoglobulin E (IgE), which is an antibody that attaches to particular cells, causing them to release chemicals that trigger an individual’s allergic reaction. By inhibiting the IgE’s ability to attach to these cells, the chemical release is prevented and so is the body’s reaction. Patients who receive injections and infusions for severe asthma may experience a reduction in symptoms and may even go into remission.

Many people with severe asthma choose to receive treatment at our free-standing infusion centers due to our amenities and flexible appointment scheduling.

Severe Asthma Therapies Administered at IVX Health

The following infusion and injection therapies are administered at IVX Health.

Severe Asthma Management at IVX Health

At IVX Health, exceptional care and comfort are key.

To ensure patients remain comfortable throughout their visit, IVX Health provides:

  • Private suites that have comfortable recliners and additional chairs for guests
  • Large screen televisions and high-speed internet
  • Convenient scheduling options
  • Friendly and caring clinical staff who are dedicated to providing each patient with personalized service
  • Complimentary snacks and beverages

What to Expect During Severe Asthma Injection and Infusion Treatments

At IVX Health, severe asthma treatment is administered via an injection or an IV infusion.

Asthma Infusion Therapy

Upon arrival at IVX Health center, a friendly staff member takes the patient to his or her private suite and treatment takes approximately 30 minutes.

One of IVX Health’s medical professionals sanitizes the IV insertion site and then a needle, attached to a catheter, is carefully inserted into the targeted vein. The medical professional then connects the catheter to the line leading up to the medication bottle or bag. During the infusion, the patient is monitored continuously to ensure any negative reaction is handled promptly.

If a patient experiences any signs indicating a negative or allergic reaction, it is crucial that the patient immediately inform one of the nurses at IVX Health.

Subcutaneous Injection Treatment for Severe Asthma

Potential injection sites for a subcutaneous shot include the upper arm, abdomen or thigh. Injection location must be rotated with each visit. Subcutaneous injections for severe asthma may be in a pre-filled pen or in a vial.

If the medication is in a vial, the injector sanitizes the top of the vial. Then, using a sterile needle and syringe, the injector withdraws the medication from the vial. The medical professional sanitizes the injection site and then inserts the needle. The medication is injected slowly, the needle is withdrawn, and sterile gauze is placed over the injection site.

If the medication is in a pre-filled pen, the injector will sanitize the injection site and slowly inject the medication from the pre-filled pen. Once the needle is withdrawn a sterile gauze will be placed over the injection site.

If a negative reaction occurs after your injection while still at IVX Health, please inform one of the medical professionals on staff. Patients experiencing a negative reaction after leaving the center need to seek emergency medical attention.

For observation purposes, patients may remain at IVX Health for a short time after their infusion or injection.

What is Severe Asthma?

Understanding Asthma: A Comprehensive Overview

Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways, causing inflammation and narrowing, which can lead to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. It impacts millions worldwide, significantly influencing their quality of life. 

Types of Asthma:

  1. Severe Asthma:
  • This intense form of asthma presents persistent symptoms that are hard to control, even with high doses of medications.
  • It frequently disrupts daily life, resulting in regular asthma attacks that may require immediate medical attention.
  • Patients with severe asthma need to work closely with healthcare providers for specialized treatments and frequent monitoring. We are dedicated to offering the best care, ensuring our patients feel supported every step of the way. 
  1. Allergic Asthma:
  • Triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, or cockroach droppings.
  • Exposure to these allergens causes the immune system to overreact, leading to asthma symptoms.
  • This form often overlaps with other allergic conditions like allergic rhinitis or eczema.

Management Strategies:

  • For severe asthma, effective management may involve specialized treatments and close monitoring with healthcare providers.
  • For allergic asthma, strategies include avoiding known allergens, using medications like inhalers and antihistamines, and possibly undergoing allergy immunotherapy to reduce sensitivity.

At our clinic, we strive to create a comfortable and caring environment for our patients, helping them navigate their journey with confidence and ease. 

What causes Severe Asthma?

Genetic Factors

Genetics play a significant role in asthma. If asthma runs in your family, you might be at a higher risk. Genetic predisposition can make your airways more sensitive to allergens and irritants, leading to frequent asthma attacks and increased severity of symptoms. Research shows that individuals with a family history of asthma should remain vigilant and proactive in managing potential symptoms.

Environmental Triggers 

Environmental factors are crucial triggers for asthma. Common triggers include:

  • Biological allergens like dust mites, cockroaches, animal dander, and mold. These allergens can be found in everyday environments such as homes, workplaces, and schools. Maintaining cleanliness and reducing exposure can make a big difference! 
  • Environmental smoke from tobacco is particularly dangerous during pregnancy and post-delivery. Secondhand smoke can be especially harmful to children, significantly increasing the likelihood of developing asthma. 
  • Irritant chemicals and fumes including traffic pollution, high ozone levels, and emissions from combustion devices. These pollutants can exacerbate asthma symptoms and lead to chronic respiratory issues if exposure is prolonged. 

Occupational Hazards 

Certain occupations expose individuals to irritants that can trigger asthma. Research shows that occupational asthma affects 5% to 15% across various industries, with an annual incidence of 12 to 170 cases per million workers. Jobs in industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare often involve exposure to chemicals, dust, and other irritants. Workers in these fields should take preventive measures, such as wearing protective gear and ensuring proper ventilation, to reduce the risk of developing work-related asthma. 

Symptoms of Severe Asthma

Understanding the symptoms is the first step in managing severe and allergic asthma. Here are the most common ones:

  • Wheezing: This is a whistling or squeaky sound that occurs during breathing, especially when exhaling, caused by narrowed airways.
  • Shortness of Breath: This sensation of not being able to get enough air can be distressing and may indicate an underlying issue requiring attention.
  • Chest Tightness: A feeling of pressure or tightness in the chest can be concerning and is often mistaken for heart problems, though it may relate to respiratory issues. 
  • Coughing: A persistent cough, particularly at night or early morning, can interfere with sleep and daily life, indicating potential respiratory distress. 
  • Increased Mucus Production: Excess mucus can obstruct the airways, complicating breathing and contributing to coughing or wheezing. 

Recognizing these symptoms early and addressing them with the right treatment and management strategies can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with severe and allergic asthma.

How to Diagnose Severe Asthma

Spirometry

  • Spirometry is your ticket to understanding your lung health! It measures how much air you can inhale and exhale, and how quickly you can blow air out of your lungs. This test is crucial for gauging the severity of your asthma and monitoring the effectiveness of your treatment, helping you breathe easier and live more comfortably. 

Peak Flow Measurement

  • Think of Peak Flow Measurement as your personal asthma monitor. It tracks how quickly you can blow air out of your lungs, giving you valuable insights to stay ahead of your condition. Recognize early signs of an asthma attack before it escalates, ensuring you’re always in control. 

FeNO Test

  • The Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) test is like a window into your airways. By measuring the level of nitric oxide in your breath, it helps identify airway inflammation. This test is especially useful for diagnosing and managing your asthma, ensuring you get the right care. We’re dedicated to helping you breathe easier. 

Allergy Testing

  • Knowing what triggers your asthma is half the battle! Allergy tests, such as skin prick tests, help identify specific allergens, allowing for targeted management strategies. This knowledge empowers you to avoid triggers and better control your asthma symptoms.

Imaging Tests

  • Chest X-rays or CT scans provide a detailed look at your lungs and airways, helping to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms. These imaging tests are essential for ensuring you receive the most accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Standard Treatment Options for Severe Asthma

Medications 

Managing severe and allergic asthma can feel overwhelming at times, but understanding your medications can make a big difference. Long-term control medications, like inhaled corticosteroids, are your daily allies, helping to reduce inflammation and prevent symptoms from arising. Quick relief medications, such as rescue inhalers, are there for you when you need immediate comfort during an attack. By using both types correctly, you can take control of your asthma and minimize flare-ups, bringing you peace of mind. 

Long-term Control Medications

  • Inhaled Corticosteroids: These medications are crucial for managing airway inflammation long-term. By reducing inflammation, they serve as your daily defense against asthma symptoms and attacks, ensuring easier breathing and a fuller life. 
  • Long-acting Beta Agonists (LABAs): LABAs relax the muscles surrounding the airways, keeping them open for easier breathing. When used with inhaled corticosteroids, they offer extended relief from asthma symptoms, providing a comprehensive management strategy.
  • Leukotriene Modifiers: These medications effectively reduce inflammation and mucus production by blocking leukotrienes—chemicals involved in the immune response. This action decreases asthma symptoms and enhances lung function, allowing you to breathe more freely.

Quick-relief Medications

  • Short-acting Beta Agonists (SABAs): SABAs provide rapid relief during an asthma attack by quickly relaxing airway muscles. They help you breathe easier within minutes, making them a reliable option for immediate assistance. 
  • Oral corticosteroids: Powerful medications used short-term to quickly reduce severe asthma inflammation during exacerbations, ensuring easier breathing while longer-term treatments take effect; their use is limited due to potential side effects from prolonged use. 

Biologic Options for Severe Asthma at IVX

Biologics are advanced treatments designed for individuals with severe asthma who do not respond well to standard therapies. These groundbreaking medications target specific immune pathways to reduce inflammation and prevent asthma exacerbations. Examples of biologics include Omalizumab, Mepolizumab, Reslizumab, Benralizumab, and Dupilumab, each working on different aspects of the immune system to provide relief. 🎉 We’re proud to offer these innovative options to help you live your best life.

  • TEZSPIRE® (tezepelumab): This groundbreaking medication targets and blocks thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), a key player in the inflammatory cascade. By reducing airway inflammation, it’s a game-changer in asthma management, providing patients with the relief they deserve.
  • FASENRA® (benralizumab): Working diligently to deplete eosinophils, a type of white blood cell that significantly contributes to asthma inflammation, Fasenra enhances respiratory function and reduces asthma exacerbations, ensuring our patients breathe easier.
  • XOLAIR® (omalizumab): Binding to immunoglobulin E (IgE), a molecule involved in allergic responses, Xolair effectively halts the chain of events that lead to allergic reactions and asthma symptoms, empowering patients to live their lives to the fullest.
  • CINQAIR® (reslizumab): By targeting and reducing eosinophils, Cinqair lowers inflammation in the airways, resulting in better asthma control and fewer symptoms. It’s another powerful tool in our commitment to patient care.
  • NUCALA® (mepolizumab): This specialized treatment targets interleukin-5 (IL-5), a cytokine responsible for the growth and survival of eosinophils. By reducing eosinophil levels and associated inflammation, Nucala significantly improves asthma management, helping patients thrive.

We’re dedicated to enhancing lives with our patient-centric approach, focusing on compassion, excellence, and continuous growth. Your well-being is our top priority, and we’re proud to be at the forefront of asthma care. 

Final Thoughts

Understanding severe and allergic asthma is essential for managing these chronic conditions effectively. By recognizing triggers, adhering to treatment plans, and making lifestyle changes, individuals can lead healthier and more active lives. 

If you’re looking to refine your asthma management plan, our dedicated team of experts is here to help! Take the first step towards better asthma control by scheduling a consultation with us today. Let’s embark on this journey together towards a healthier, more vibrant life. 

Being Known is Being Cared for. 

Ready to take control of your asthma? Explore the benefits of our comprehensive asthma management programs and financial assistance options today. Contact us to schedule a consultation and start your journey towards a healthier, more vibrant life. 

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