ASTHMAWhat is asthma?Asthma is a common medical condition that affects the small airways in the lungs. During an asthma attack the lining of the airways swell, there is a build up of mucous and the muscles around the airways tighten. This causes narrowing of the airways and makes it difficult to breathe. What causes asthma? The exact cause of asthma is unknown though people with asthma have sensitive airways. Factors that may “trigger’ an attack include cigarette smoke, viral infections, allergies and exercise. Who gets asthma? Asthma is more prevalent in children affecting approximately one in four children, one in seven teenagers and one in ten adults. Around 600 Australians die each year from this condition. Symptoms? An asthma attack can develop suddenly over minutes or slowly over days and typical symptoms include;
Treatment? Most sufferers have their own “asthma action plan” which is formed with the help of your GP and includes medication such as relievers, preventers and symptom controllers. Most medication is administered via a dose inhaler or puffer. Spacers or space chambers are also used to give puffer medication to children. Relievers that rapidly open the airways such as Ventolin and these are taken as needed such as before sport or during an attack. Preventers prevent attacks by treating inflamed airways and need to be taken daily and include Pulmicort, Flixotide, Tilade or Intal. Symptom controllers help narrowed airways open for longer (up to 12 hours) These do not help during an attack and include Serevent, Oxis and Foradil. Emergency Treatment? Asthma can be fatal so if you have difficulty breathing and your medication isn’t helping then you need to call an ambulance or call emergency 000. This goes if you see someone having an attack. Summary! Asthma is common in Australia but with the help of your GP and an action plan you will lead a normal life. Over time you will recognise the triggers and avoid them or take the short-term medication if it is because of sport. If you or more likely your children are showing any symptoms then get them checked out straight away. Source of information www.health.vic.gov.au or to know more try www.asthma.org.au |
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