Click on the headings below to read our Asthma Factsheet
Asthma is a long term condition that affects the airways (bronchial tubes) in the lungs.
People with asthma have inflamed (swollen) and sensitive airways that become narrow and clogged with sticky mucus in response to certain triggers.
- Shortness of breath
- Tightness in the chest
- Coughing and wheezing
- A family history of asthma or related allergic conditions known as atopic conditions such as eczema, food allergy or hay fever
- Smoking or if you had exposure to tobacco smoke as a child
- Exercise - (exercise-induced asthma)
- Being born prematurely or with a low weight
The goal of treatment is for people to be free from symptoms and be able to lead a normal, active life.
Asthma medication is taken using different inhalers. An inhaler is a device that delivers the drug directly to your airways. Take your medication as directed by the prescriber. Do not stop taking your medication unless your doctor tells you to.
Another way to treat your asthma is to look at reducing the risk of infection, chest infections, flus and colds can really exacerbate asthma symptoms.
Therefore, make sure to have relevant seasonal vaccinations such as flu jabs. These are often free to those with asthma.
Myth 1: You only need to take your medication when you are having an asthma attack
No, even if there are no obvious signs of inflammation it is still essential to take medication as directed. Some people have their asthma medication prescribed daily and some do not.
However, you can still take this medication as a preventative measure. For example, you could use your inhaler prior to exercising or before cleaning the house if you are triggered by dust/dust mites.
Myth 2: People with asthma should not exercise
This is untrue; while exercise can be a trigger for asthma attacks, this does not mean you should avoid it altogether.
Physical activity can improve lung function and general health.
If your doctor is happy for you to exercise make sure you warm up prior to activity and have a quick relief inhaler to hand, if prescribed.
Myth 3: Asthma treatments reduce in efficacy over time
Not true, the medications used to treat asthma have been shown to be continually effective in long term use.
It is still important to note any worsening symptoms, such as using your inhaler more frequently. This could be due to exposure to one of your triggers that may not be visible, such as allergens. It could also mean that your asthma has worsened.
Therefore, recognising changes in your symptoms and discussing this with your doctor is essential.
Myth 4: Asthma attacks always require a trigger
No, asthma attacks do not always require a trigger.
Although it is important to know your triggers, you should also be aware that your symptoms could indicate worsening inflammation.
If you do recognise changes, you should discuss this with your doctors, especially if all of your known triggers have been managed or eliminated.
Asthma + Lung UK
A national charity providing information and advice for the public and for health professionals around Asthma and other lung conditions.
https://www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/
Helpline 0300 222 5800
Email: helpline@asthmaandlung.org.uk
NHS Conditions
NHS conditions pages contain information about the causes, symptoms and treatment of asthma and advice for people living with the condition.
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/asthma/
NHS Wellbeing App
Links to NHS Wellbeing Apps designed to support you in making healthy lifestyle changes and managing stress.
https://www.england.nhs.uk/supporting-our-nhs-people/support-now/wellbeing-apps/
Bromley Asthma + Lung UK Support Group
Local Support for people living with a lung condition.
https://www.asthmaandlung.org.uk/help/support-network/bromley-asthma-lung-uk-support-group
Tel: 0300 303 0253
You can find out more about the support provided by our Long Term Health Conditions Team on the Long Term Health Conditions webpage.
Download the Asthma Factsheet as a .pdf here
Select another factsheet from the list found on the right or beneath this factsheet.