Asthma

- a chronic respiratory condition marked by attacks of spasms of the bronchi of the lungs and it causes breathing difficulties

- EXTRINSIC - triggered by an allergic reaction

- INTRINSIC - triggered by factors not related to allergies

PEOPLE AT RISK

- born prematurely, low birth weight, exposure to tobacco smoke, bronchiolitis

TRIGGERS

- allergens, weather, emotions (laughing, crying etc), exercise, sulphites in food

- shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, asthma attacks

HOW IT IS DIAGNOSED

-Spirometry - breathe in to spirometer and measures the volume of air out in 1 second and total volume out

-Peak Expiratory Flow Rate Test - measures how fast you can blow out in one breath

1. Reliever Inhaler (BLUE) - taken to relieve symptoms quickly and works by relaxing the muscles around the narrowed airways

2. Preventer Inhaler (BROWN) - taken morning and night to reduce inflammation and chance of attacks

3. Immunotherapy - allergy shots/ sublingual tablets to build up immune system against allergens

4. Oral Steroids - last resort and works in two ways

- to regain control of symptoms

- given for prolonged periods while maintaining inhaler treatments

LIFESTYLE CHANGES

-no smoking, no pets, have a well ventilated house, counselling (Asthma UK Helpline), MedicAlert

DIETARY CHANGES

-low sulphite foods

EXERCISE

-not too vigorous

FINANCIAL

-severe cases may result in benefits, miss work so lower income, if you have to stop smoking you'll save money.

PHYSICAL

-tight chest, sore throat from coughing,side effects of medication, dizziness from shortness of breath

INTELLECTUAL

-learn about condition, might miss school

EMOTIONAL

- worry, self conscious about using inhaler

SOCIAL

-can't participate in sport activities, weather dependent, isolation, support network, have to avoid smokers