Have you been diagnosed with asthma? Are you taking the correct medications? Do you know what your triggers for asthma are? Do you feel confident that you’ll know what to do if you have an asthma attack? For people living with this condition, asthma management is key in helping you live your life to the fullest. 

Asthma management may change with your age, health or lifestyle, so it’s important to check in with your GP regularly so they can update your asthma action plan.

Your doctor can reduce the risk of serious medical complications in relation to an asthma attack through effective asthma management. From the danger signs to medications used when you’re well or unwell, asthma management should be a daily task for those living with this condition.

A combination of known triggers, asthma symptoms and medicines prescribed by your doctor, can help you take control of your asthma and improve your health and wellbeing.

Asthma is, put simply, the inflammation and narrowing of the airways. There are several types of asthma which present a different array of symptoms. Some of the more common types of asthma include allergic asthma, non-allergic asthma, nocturnal asthma and exercise-induced asthma. 

Symptoms can range from chest pain to wheezing and a persistent cough. 

If you experience any of these symptoms and have not yet been diagnosed with asthma, it’s essential that you book an appointment with your doctor for a thorough check up.

As part of your asthma management plan, your doctor may prescript you a corticosteroid asthma preventer, which works as an anti-inflammatory medication. Asthma relievers (often referred to as ‘puffers’) reduce the symptoms of asthma for rapid relief.

Lifestyle adjustments to avoid known asthma triggers (such as pollen and air quality or certain foods, animals and plants) are appropriate for effective asthma management. Your doctor will also discuss the symptoms of your type of asthma, so you are well prepared to manage your asthma.

From young children to seniors, asthma is a condition which affects all suffers differently. As a long-term lung condition of the airways, asthma can only be managed — not cured. However, working in conjunction with your doctor can help you educate and equip yourself to live with this condition.

If you want to take control of your asthma, talk to our GPs at Drayton Street Family Practice. Call our Nanango practice on 07 3857 2799 and learn more about our asthma management plans.

* The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organization, employer or company.