Asthma is a common condition that affects the airways. It can cause a range of symptoms including coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. At it’s worst, asthma can be life-threatening, and in fact, thousands of people die from the condition every year in the UK and US.1
Asthma is a condition that many people just learn to live with. As a result, sometimes people forget that it is possible to gain full control of your asthma.
Having well-controlled asthma can help you lead a normal life and may mean you’re able to do certain activities that would otherwise trigger an asthma attack.
We think it’s super important to understand the things that can help you gain control of your asthma. Here are 5 things that can help:
Follow your asthma action plan on when to use preventer inhaler and adjust dose
You should use your preventer inhaler regularly and according to your asthma action plan, to ensure your asthma symptoms are controlled. When your symptoms worsen, you can increase your preventer inhaler as detailed in your plan. When symptoms improve, you can reduce this back down again. If you miss doses or use your inhaler differently to how you should, this may make your asthma symptoms worse.
Keep your reliever inhaler with you wherever you go
Your reliever inhaler (blue) should only ever be used to relieve asthma symptoms (wheeze, shortness of breath, cough). Make sure it is always in reach wherever you go, as it can quickly relieve your asthma symptoms.
Ensure your inhaler technique is correct for the type of inhaler you are using
The best way to inhale depends on the type of inhaler you use. If your inhaler technique is not right, it may mean you are not getting the correct amount of medication into your lungs. This can lead to more asthma symptoms and a higher chance of asthma attacks.
If you are not sure how to use your inhaler correctly, you think you might be doing it wrong, or you just want to review your technique, please book a review with a Babylon pharmacist, who will go through this with you and advise you on any changes you should make.
Track your symptoms and use a peak flow meter to check how you’re doing
If you are experiencing more asthma symptoms, such as cough, wheezing, and feeling breathless, particularly if these symptoms wake you in the night or affect exercise, it is likely that your asthma is worsening and your treatment may need adjusting. Regularly using a peak flow meter also helps you keep track of your symptoms and notice when your asthma is worsening so that you can take action early.
Book your asthma review with Babylon today
Everyone with asthma should receive a yearly review of their symptoms and treatment in order to assess control, check their inhaler technique, and renew their asthma action plan. Please ensure that you book an asthma review at least once a year.
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References
1. Asthma MD, Asthma statistics
The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Seek the advice of a doctor with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never delay seeking or disregard professional medical advice because of something you have read here.