It’s the peak time for Asthma – are you ready?
We are now celebrating National Asthma Awareness Week, and we couldn’t think of a better time to raise awareness of what Asthma is. This week is dedicated to promoting a better understanding of Asthma to the general population and highlighting ways to help people manage this condition.
This 2019, we aim to do just through our theme, “Asthma in Disguise.” Events and discussions will highlight the hidden symptoms of Asthma and how it affects the sufferers.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, over 10% of Australians are suffering from Asthma. That is equivalent to 1 in every 10 Australians and a whopping 2.5 million people. It is highly likely that you, or somebody you care about, is affected by Asthma.
Despite being a national health priority, many people still don’t understand Asthma and what it’s like to manage this condition.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic lung disease caused by swelling and inflammation of the bronchial tubes, sometimes in reactions to allergens, stress, physical exhaustion or changes in temperature. This condition is characterized by recurrent attacks of wheezing and shortness of breath.
Asthma is not usually curable, but it can be controlled to a certain extent. Understanding the condition and knowing what to do is important and could save a life.
Here we list down five things you need to know about Asthma.
- September is the perfect storm for those with Asthma in Australia. During this month, the pollen count and air pollution levels increase, which may cause a higher risk of an asthma attack for some people.
- Women are twice likely to have Asthma as men. A study has found that gender differences and hormone fluctuations may explain why women have higher asthma rates compared to men.
- If an asthma attack is suspected, these are the five asthma symptoms to look for:
- Shortness of breath/difficulty breathing
- Wheezing
- Coughing
- Distress
- Bluish-grey tinge to the lips, earlobes, and nailbeds.
- Most people with Asthma should eat a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and get plenty of sleep. Research shows that these habits can improve lung health and prevent the development of permanent lung damage.
- About 60% of asthma-related deaths would have been prevented if people had basic asthma care. Emergency care for Asthma should include a personalized asthma action plan, having the right medication, and knowing the correct inhaler technique.
Be Prepared to Better Manage Asthma
Asthma is a life-long condition; that is why it is so important to have an Asthma Action Plan. This Asthma Action Plan will contain a set of instructions to help you stay in control of your Asthma. To do that, the doctor and the person with Asthma must work in partnership.
National Asthma Awareness Week educates and raises awareness of Asthma in the hope of relieving suffering and deaths. Education and understanding are the keys to the effective control of Asthma. With the right treatment and management, people with Asthma can still achieve a symptom-free, normal everyday life.