Health & Wellbeing - Asthma
Asthma is a common condition which affects the small air passages of the lungs.
During an asthma attack these small airways become narrower resulting in a reduction of air in and out of the lungs. The person can experience shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness or an irritating cough particularly at night , early morning or when exercising.
Asthma can begin at any age and can change over time. The exact cause of asthma is unknown but there is often a family history of asthma, eczema or allergies. Certain foods, chemicals, change in temperature and weather and environmental factors have been identified as triggers of asthma symptoms. It is helpful to identify these triggers but this is not always possible.
Asthma cannot be cured but it can be managed. Medication is available to relieve, prevent and control asthma symptoms. Good management of asthma under the guidance of a doctor allows most people to lead an active, healthy lifestyle.
In the even of signs of a severe asthma attack, e.g. increasing chest tightness, coughing, shortness of breath and wheezing, dial 000 for an ambulance, immediately.
Click on the links below for further information about asthma, its treatment and support services available.