Do you think you might have Asthma? Experiencing a flare up recently? Let us try to help you!
Here’s some information about Asthma and what our qualified GPs can offer to you!
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a common lung condition that causes occasional breathing difficulties.
It affects people of all ages and often starts in childhood, although it can also develop for the first time in adults.
There’s currently no cure, but there are simple treatments that can help keep the symptoms under control so it doesn’t have a big impact on your life.
Identifying and avoiding your asthma triggers can help you keep your symptoms under control. Many people with Asthma are able to maintain perfectly normal lifestyles by following medications and identifying asthma attacks early.
| KEY TIP: If you have asthma, you should follow your personal asthma action plan and take all of your medicines as prescribed. Regular asthma reviews with your GP can also help! |
Causes
Asthma is caused by swelling (inflammation) of the breathing tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. This makes the tubes highly sensitive, so they temporarily narrow.
It may occur randomly or after exposure to a trigger. Common asthma triggers include:
- Allergies – to house dust mites, animal fur or pollen, for example
- Smoke, pollution and cold air
- Exercise
- Infections like colds or flu
Symptoms
The main symptoms of asthma are:
- Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing)
- Breathlessness
- A tight chest, which may feel like a band is tightening around your chestÂ
- Coughing
The symptoms can sometimes get temporarily worse. This is known as an asthma attack.
Treatment
See your GP if you think you or your child may have asthma. Several conditions can cause similar symptoms, so it’s important to get a proper diagnosis and correct treatment.
Asthma is usually treated by using an inhaler, a small device that lets you breathe in medicines.
The main types are:
- Reliever inhalers – used when needed to quickly relieve asthma symptoms for a short time
- Preventer inhalers – used every day to prevent asthma symptoms occurring
- Some people also need to take tablets.
Your GP will usually be able to diagnose asthma by asking about symptoms and carrying out some simple tests.
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