Feeling Short of Breath? A Guide to Asthma Attack Help in Arlington, TX
Feeling Short of Breath? A Guide to Asthma Attack Help in Arlington, TX
If you’ve been feeling short of breath and wheezing a lot today, especially after climbing stairs, and your chest feels tight, it’s natural to feel worried—especially if catching your breath has become harder and you don’t have your inhaler with you. These symptoms can be concerning, and it’s important to know the best next steps to take for your health and peace of mind.
This guide is here to help you understand which healthcare providers can help with asthma attack symptoms near Arlington, TX, and what you might expect in terms of initial visit procedures and costs. You’re in the right place to get clear, local information so you can get the care you need.
Who to See for Your Symptoms in Arlington, TX
Based on your symptoms, here are a few types of doctors who could be a good starting point for evaluation and treatment:
- Pulmonary Disease Specialists: These doctors focus specifically on lung and breathing problems. They can offer specialized testing and treatment for asthma and other respiratory conditions.
- Emergency Medicine Providers: If your symptoms get worse or you feel you’re in immediate danger, emergency medicine providers at urgent care centers or emergency departments are equipped to handle urgent asthma attacks and breathing emergencies.
- Internal Medicine Physicians: These doctors are trained to diagnose and treat adult medical conditions, including asthma and other chronic respiratory issues.
- Family Practice Doctors: These are general physicians who can diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, including asthma. They are often the first step in managing your symptoms and referring you to specialists if needed.
What to Expect: Initial Visits and Estimated Costs
Visit with a Pulmonary Disease Specialist
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Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
Purpose: This visit is to discuss your symptoms, take your medical history, and perform an exam. It’s the foundation for understanding your breathing difficulties.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $189.39 (typically ranges from $142.04 to $236.74)
This estimate is based on 72 providers in the Arlington, TX area. -
Procedure: Test to measure expiratory airflow and volume (CPT Code: 94010)
Purpose: This quick test measures how much air you can blow out and how fast, helping assess lung function.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $16.92 (typically ranges from $11.29 to $22.54)
This estimate is based on 34 providers. -
Procedure: Test to measure airflow changes before and after medication administration (CPT Code: 94060)
Purpose: To see how well your lungs respond to asthma medication during testing, providing useful feedback for your treatment.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $45.26 (typically ranges from $26.33 to $64.19)
This estimate is based on 47 providers. -
Procedure: Chest X-ray, two views (CPT Code: 71046)
Purpose: Helps rule out infections or other lung problems that might cause similar symptoms.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $53.39 (typically ranges from $40.04 to $66.74)
This estimate is based on 8 providers.
Visit with an Emergency Medicine Provider
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Procedure: Emergency department visit with moderate medical decision making (CPT Code: 99284)
Purpose: For urgent evaluation and treatment if symptoms worsen, this visit addresses immediate asthma attack concerns.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $339.55 (typically ranges from $141.70 to $537.41)
This estimate is based on 480 providers. -
Procedure: Inhalation treatment for airway obstruction or sputum production (CPT Code: 94640)
Purpose: A quick treatment to open up your airways and improve breathing during an attack.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $16.91 (typically ranges from $10.30 to $23.52)
This estimate is based on 3 providers. -
Procedure: Routine electrocardiogram (ECG) for heart monitoring (CPT Code: 93010)
Purpose: Sometimes used to check if the heart is affected during breathing distress.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $25.60 (typically ranges from $9.54 to $41.66)
This estimate is based on 319 providers.
Visit with an Internal Medicine Physician
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Procedure: Emergency department visit with moderate medical decision making (CPT Code: 99284)
Purpose: Medical assessment similar to emergency medicine for worsening symptoms.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $374.06 (typically ranges from $141.35 to $606.77)
This estimate is based on 6 providers. -
Procedure: Lung gas exchange testing (CPT Code: 94729)
Purpose: Measures how well oxygen and carbon dioxide pass between the lungs and blood, important for lung health assessment.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $41.08 (typically ranges from $27.17 to $54.98)
This estimate is based on 4 providers. -
Procedure: Blood sample collection (CPT Code: 36415)
Purpose: For lab tests that check inflammation or other markers related to asthma severity.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $12.93 (typically ranges from $9.70 to $16.16)
This estimate is based on 113 providers. -
Procedure: Injection of medication under skin or muscle (CPT Code: 96372)
Purpose: Administer medicines like steroids or allergy shots if needed during the visit.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $26.02 (typically ranges from $16.68 to $35.36)
This estimate is based on 79 providers.
Visit with a Family Practice Doctor
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Procedure: Established patient office or other outpatient visit, 30-39 minutes (CPT Code: 99214)
Purpose: Initial evaluation of symptoms and ongoing asthma management.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $191.68 (typically ranges from $143.76 to $239.60)
This estimate is based on 502 providers. -
Procedure: Inhalation treatment for airway obstruction or sputum production (CPT Code: 94640)
Purpose: Providing quick relief during an asthma episode to open airways.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $22.49 (typically ranges from $10.51 to $34.46)
This estimate is based on 2 providers. -
Procedure: Routine electrocardiogram (ECG) (CPT Code: 93000)
Purpose: Testing heart rhythm as part of the overall health check.
Estimated Self-Pay Cost: $25.70 (typically ranges from $16.94 to $34.46)
This estimate is based on 90 providers.
Your Recommended Next Steps
Your health and safety come first. Here’s what you can do now:
- Schedule an Appointment: Contact one of the providers mentioned above. If your symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening, consider visiting an emergency department immediately.
- Prepare for Your Visit: Write down your symptoms, how long you’ve experienced them, any triggers you’ve noticed, and questions you want to ask your provider.
- Discuss Costs: When booking your appointment, ask about estimated costs and insurance coverage. The amounts given here are estimates based on providers in Arlington, TX.
- Stay Calm: Remember, seeking help is the best step to managing your symptoms. You’re taking responsible action to protect your health.
Need Help Navigating Your Options?
Finding affordable, trustworthy care can be confusing, especially if you’re uninsured or new to the system. That’s why we built Transparent Health: a tool to help you understand your options and find the right provider for your needs.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. If you are experiencing severe breathing difficulties or signs of a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.