CONWAY, S.C. (AP) — Coastal Carolina football coach Joe Moglia is taking a leave of absence because of a continuing medical problem.

The 68-year-old Moglia announced his plans Friday. The school granted him a five-month leave to deal with what he said was a bronchial asthmatic reaction to allergies, which causes inflammation around his lungs and results is difficulty breathing.

Moglia said he’s had the problem for three years and wants to get it fixed. Moglia said doctors have told him that time away will solve the issue and he’ll be “100 percent ready to go” to return to coaching.

Assistant head coach Jamey Chadwell will take over Coastal Carolina in its first FBS season in the Sun Belt Conference.

Moglia missed conference media days because of a medical procedure.

I have enough experience to know that almost all press releases are done in the third person, but not this one.  This is something I want to share personally.Moglia issued the following statement Friday: 

For three years now, I have had a bronchial asthmatic reaction to allergies, which causes inflammation around my lungs.  The inflammation restricts the lungs, which could create a serious breathing problem.

I want to be clear: I do not have a disease and I am in no danger, but I do need to get this addressed.

Dr. David DeCenzo, the president of CCU, has offered me a medical sabbatical for the next five months, which I’m going to take.

The doctors and I are confident that this will take care of the problem, and I will be 100% ready to go by the end of the season.

I have appointed Jamey Chadwell as our interim head coach. While he will have full discretion, he is fully expected to build on our philosophy, processes, and BAM standard, which is what differentiates us from other programs and are our competitive advantages.

I recognize most coaches wouldn’t make this decision, but I’m not like most coaches and I very much believe I am making a smart long-term decision in exchange for a near-term sacrifice.

My full intent is to be back when the season is over and continue my coaching career.

Thanks so much for your support. Chants Up!

Joe