Asthma

In the last 50 years the number of people suffering asthma has rocketed, at the moment we expect roughly 1 in 10 adults and 1 in 7 children to have Asthma.

Symptoms include breathing diffculties, uncontrollable dry cough, especially at night, and wheeziness.

Most people with Asthma will only notice the symptoms from time to time, and may spend most of their lives not needing any treatment at all; this is why people think that you can grow out of Asthma. The breathing tubes or airways become narrow, making it difficult to get air in and out of the lungs. This is result of breathing in irritating chemicals, dusts, pollen, or dust mite droppings.

We cannot cure asthma, and for many sufferers, the symptoms can go away for many years, but if Asthma is a problem, there are several treatments that can help.

• Bronchodilators (relievers)

• Steroids (preventers)

• Sodium cromoglycate (Intal)

• Theophyline (tablet)

• Leukotriene receptor agonists

• Prevention

• Relax

• Keep fit

• Vacuum your house and wash bedclothes regularly

• Keep pets off sofas, chairs and beds

keep the house well ventilated - Asthma

A leaflet from Patient UK - Click Here

A charity dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the 5.2 million people in the UK whose lives are affected by asthma.