Health News
NATIONAL ASTHMA WEEK 1 - 7TH SEPTEMBER
Theme: "Three or more is very poor' - if you use your reliever medication three or more times a week, your asthma is out of control and it's time to see your doctor.
What is Asthma? Asthma is a condition of the airways. People with asthma have sensitive airways which react to triggers that set off their asthma. Their airways swell and get thick with mucus and the muscles around the airway squeeze tight. This makes it hard to breathe.
Symptoms include: coughing, tight feeling in the chest, wheezing, shortness of breath, struggling to breathe
Who gets asthma and why? Asthma affects people of all ages. Some people get asthma when they are young, others when they are older. The causes are not fully understood, although people with asthma often have a family history of asthma, eczema and hayfever. There is some evidence that exposure to environmental factors such as workplace chemicals or tobacco smoke can lead to asthma.
How do your symptoms help you understand your asthma? Everyone's asthma is different and can change over time: that's why it's important for people with asthma to see their doctor at least twice a year for an asthma check-up and more frequently if they have concerns.
If you have asthma, see your doctor if you:
• Wake up coughing, wheezing or breathless
• Struggle to keep up with normal activity
• Use your reliever more than three times a week
• Are unsure about the way your medications can work best for you
Attached is an Asthma Action first aid plan for your information.
For more information about asthma go to: www.asthmawa.org.au
Jenny Hill - College Nurse
