Asthma

What is asthma?

Asthma is a very common condition that affects how you breathe. Your airways (the tubes that carry air to your lungs) can become swollen and narrow, making it harder to breathe. While asthma cannot be cured, it can be managed very well with the right treatment.

What does asthma feel like?

The main signs of asthma are:

• Wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe)
• Coughing
• Feeling out of breath
• Your chest feeling tight

These symptoms can be mild or more troublesome. They often come and go, and may be worse at night or early in the morning.

What triggers asthma symptoms?

Different things can set off asthma symptoms:

• Exercise
• Cold air
• Air pollution
• Things you're allergic to like pollen, dust, mould, or animals
• Cigarette smoke
• Strong smells

When should you see your GP?

Speak to your GP if:

• You or your child have asthma symptoms
• You have asthma but your treatments aren't helping
• You're using your inhaler more often than usual
• Your symptoms are stopping you from doing normal activities or waking you up at night

What is an asthma attack?

An asthma attack is when your symptoms become severe and it's very difficult to breathe. This can be life-threatening.

During an asthma attack:

• Sit up straight to help your breathing
• Try to stay calm
• Use your reliever inhaler (usually blue) - take 1 puff every 30-60 seconds up to 10 puffs maximum
• Shake your inhaler between each puff

Call 999 immediately if:

• You feel worse at any time
• You don't feel better after using your inhaler
• You don't have an inhaler with you

Never drive yourself to A&E during an asthma attack.

Even if you recover from an asthma attack, see your GP within 2 days to review your treatment.

How is asthma diagnosed?

Your GP will ask about your symptoms and listen to your chest. You might need:

• A simple breathing test
• A blood test
• To use a peak flow meter at home for a few weeks (this measures how well your lungs work)

Asthma can take time to diagnose because symptoms vary.

How is asthma treated?

The main treatment is medicine you breathe in through an inhaler. Your GP will work out which type you need. You might get:

• A reliever inhaler to use when you get symptoms
• A preventer inhaler to use every day
• Or a combination inhaler that does both jobs

It's very important to use your inhaler correctly. Your GP, nurse, or pharmacist will show you how.

Living with asthma

To help manage your asthma:

• Always carry your inhaler
• Take your medicines as advised
• Try to avoid your triggers
• Exercise regularly (ask your GP for advice if exercise triggers your symptoms)
• Keep to a healthy weight
• Get vaccinations like the flu jab
• Don't smoke

Most people with asthma live normal, active lives when their condition is well-managed. Some medicines like aspirin and ibuprofen can trigger symptoms in some people, so always check with your pharmacist or GP before taking new medicines.

Remember, asthma affects everyone differently. Work with your healthcare team to find the best treatment plan for you.

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Based on NHS.uk guidance. Written by Dr Krishnan Pasupathi, NHS GP.