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At Eastgate Surgery you can get regular asthma check-ups
with the nurse.
Asthma is one of the very most common medical conditions in
the world. In this country alone, one adult in 25 and one
child in seven gets the irritating cough and breathlessness
typical of asthma.
Many people’s asthma is mild. In serious asthma modern
medication, taken correctly – with the support of asthma
specialists – means nearly everyone with asthma can
control their symptoms, effectively cope with an asthma attack
when it occurs and, to all intents and purposes, lead happy,
healthy lives.
Symptoms that are typical of asthma include; wheezing, shortness
of breath, a tightening feeling in the chest and/or persistent
coughing.
How is it diagnosed?
If your doctor believes you do have asthma, he or she may
decide you need immediate treatment with a reliever inhaler.
You’ll then be given a personalised programme of treatment
to help prevent asthma symptoms which may lead to an attack
does happen. Your doctor – or possibly the practise
nurse – will also guide you through a personalised plan
to help you manage your condition effectively
What to do during an attack
If you feel an attack coming on, take two puffs of your reliever
inhaler – preferably using a spacer if you have one.
Sit down and stay calm, with your hands resting on your knees
for support.
If there is no improvement within five to ten minutes, call
your doctor or an ambulance and keep using your reliever inhaler
until help arrives. If you’re on steroid tablets, take
them as per your doctor’s instructions.
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