National Asthma Week 1st – 7th September 2024

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterised by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which leads to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. These symptoms can be triggered by various factors, including allergens, respiratory infections, exercise, and environmental pollutants. Asthma can vary in severity and may be managed with medications such as inhalers, which help reduce inflammation and open the airways. Asthma is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases in Australia.

What does asthma feel like? Understanding asthma symptoms

Asthma symptoms can vary, but common experiences include:

• Wheezing: A high-pitched whistling sound when breathing, particularly during exhalation.
• Shortness of Breath: Feeling as though you can’t get enough air or having difficulty breathing deeply.
• Chest Tightness: A sensation of pressure or constriction in the chest, sometimes described as feeling like a weight on the chest.
• Coughing: Frequent, persistent coughing, which may be worse at night or early in the morning.

These symptoms can be intermittent or persistent and may worsen with triggers such as allergens, smoke, cold air, or respiratory infections.

Managing asthma with a General Practitioner (GP) involves a few key steps:

1. Assessment and Diagnosis: Your GP will assess your symptoms, medical history, and possibly perform tests like spirometry to confirm asthma and determine its severity.
2. Medication Management: Your GP will prescribe medications to control your asthma. These may include inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting beta-agonists, and rescue inhalers. They will also help adjust dosages as needed.
3. Action Plan: Your GP will create an asthma action plan outlining how to manage symptoms daily and what to do during an asthma attack. This plan will include when to use your medications and when to seek emergency help.
4. Monitoring: Regular follow-ups with your GP are essential to monitor your condition, review your asthma action plan, and adjust treatments if necessary.
5. Lifestyle and Triggers: Your GP will discuss strategies to avoid asthma triggers and make lifestyle recommendations to help manage your condition, such as avoiding allergens and staying active.
6. Education: Your GP will educate you about asthma, including how to use inhalers properly and recognise early signs of worsening asthma.

Regular communication and adherence to your treatment plan are key to effectively managing asthma with your GP.

What is a Asthma Action Plan?

An asthma action plan is a personalised document created in collaboration with a healthcare provider to help manage asthma. It outlines:

1. Daily Management: Instructions on taking daily medications (preventers) and how to monitor symptoms.
2. Recognising Triggers: Information on identifying and avoiding asthma triggers.
3. Symptom Monitoring: Guidelines for recognising worsening symptoms and when to seek medical help.
4. Medication Use: Directions for using quick-relief (rescue) inhalers and adjusting medications based on symptoms.
5. Emergency Plan: Steps to take if symptoms worsen or in case of an asthma attack, including when to seek emergency medical help.

Having an asthma action plan helps individuals manage their condition effectively and respond appropriately to changes in their symptoms.