Asthma and COPD Clinic
The Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Clinic helps patients learn what they need to know about asthma and COPD. Patients referred to the clinic with uncontrolled asthma and recently diagnosed COPD are evaluated and treated using the best practices in asthma and pulmonary care.
Patients may benefit from a referral to the Trinity Asthma and COPD Clinic if:
- Unhappy with his/her asthma control
- Wakes frequently at night to use asthma inhaler
- Activity is limited by asthma and breathing problems
- Patient has under-controlled asthma
- Does not understand medication or does not take as prescribed
- Frequent emergency room visits for pulmonary distress
At the clinic, all patients will receive an evaluation by Dr. Brandes who is knowledgeable in the latest treatment options, best practices and medications for optimal asthma control. Clinic evaluations, recommendations and training will include the following as needed:
- Spirometry with pre and post bronchodilator
- Pulmonary function test
- General asthma education including: asthma control, pathology, medication device technique, triggers, recognizing signs and symptoms, avoidance strategies, environmental control, spirometry -pre and post bronchodilation and action plan
- General COPD education including: medication device technique, pathology, breath control, conservation of energy, referrals to smoking cessation program and support
- Asthma and/or COPD action plan.
After being seen in the Asthma and COPD Clinic, patients will learn how to:
- Control asthma or manage COPD (also known as emphysema)
- Properly use an inhaler
- Understand prescribed medications for improved medication management
- Avoid or reduce exposure to common asthma or COPD "triggers"
- Take steps to quit smoking if needed
- Be referred to pulmonary rehabilitation if needed.
Is Your Asthma Under Control?
If your asthma is under control:
- You should be using your reliever medication less than three times a week
- You should not be waking up from sleep because of your asthma
- You should not have to modify (restrict) any of your activities because of asthma
- You should not need urgent treatment (emergency department or walk-in clinic) for your asthma
Warning Signs that Your Asthma is Out of Control
There are many signs that you may not know of, which indicate that your asthma is not well controlled. Often, early intervention can help control your asthma rather than letting it get worse. Here is a 30-second test that you can take that will tell you whether or not your asthma is out of control.
- Do you cough, wheeze, or have a tight chest because of your asthma?
- Do coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness wake you at night?
- Do you stop exercising because of your asthma?
- Do you ever miss school or work because of your asthma?
- Do you use your blue inhaler more than three times a week? (except one dose/day for exercise)
If you answered "YES" to one or more questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist how you can feel better.
Meet Our Physician
William Brandes, M.D.
Trinity Asthma & COPD Clinic
4480 Utica Ridge Road Ste 2230
Terrace Park Professional Center
Bettendorf, IA 52722
Phone: (309) 779-3670
Fax: (309) 779-3675
Education
College/Medical School: LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans
Internship: University of Florida College of Medicine - Internal Medicine
Residency: University of Florida College of Medicine Internal Medicine
Fellowship: University of Florida College of Medicine - Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine
Board Certification(s): Internal Medicine and Pulmonary/Critical Care