Video transcript
Asthma affects 2.7 million Australians. If not managed properly asthma can be life threatening.
Asthma Council Australia has updated the guidelines setting new standards of medical care and treatments: in hospital, at the GP and at the pharmacy.
If you have asthma or are a carer, how do these changes affect you?
- Your GP and pharmacist should train you to use your inhaler correctly so that you receive the right dose of medication at the right time.
- Asthma medication should be regularly checked and adjusted by your GP particularly during childhood and adolescence.
- You should have an Asthma Action Plan provided by your GP, and it needs to be updated every 6 months.
- If you are admitted to hospital with acute asthma you should receive a plan on discharge which includes a follow-up within 3 days plus a review at 2–4 weeks.
- Medication costs can add up but ask your GP about the range of treatment options within your financial means.
- Thunderstorm asthma advice is now blanket – check pollen levels and avoid being outdoors during springtime storms when pollen count is high.
- Back to school asthma can be a serious risk – speak to your GP about a management plan for your child.
For more information go to asthmaaustralia.org.au, visit our Asthma section, or call the Asthma helpline 1800 278 462.
