It is estimated that up to 600,000 Victorians and more than 2 million Australians have asthma. Approximately 15% of children have currently diagnosed asthma. Approximately 11% of adults have currently diagnosed asthma.

The narrowing of the air tubes in the lungs through muscle contraction, inflammation and production of excess mucus causing difficulty in breathing - i.e. the inhaling and exhaling of air. The cause is unknown.

While there is presently no `cure’ for asthma, correct diagnosis and adequate treatment and management of the condition will allow the majority of people with asthma to lead a full and active lifestyle.

Symptoms

• difficulty in breathing • wheezing • tiredness • chest tightness • coughing • difficulty speaking

Major trigger factors

• colds/infections • sudden weather and temperature changes • exercise • tobacco smoke • house dust mite • occupational irritants • pollens • food additives and preservatives • mould • certain medications • animal dander • emotions/stress

Asthma medications include

(a) Relievers: (usually blue)• Ventolin / Asmol / Airomir / Epaq • Bricanyl • Atrovent (green) • Oral Theophylline (Nuelin)

(b) Preventers (brown/beige/yellow/orange devices):
• Intal / Intal Forte • Tilade • Qvar • Pulmicort • Flixotide • Singulair (tablet) • Oral Cortisone - tablet/syrup

(c) Symptom Controllers (green/light blue devices):
• Serevent • Foradile / Oxis

(d) Combination Medications: Combines preventer & symptom controller
• Seretide (purple) • Symbicort (red)

Aerosol Inhalers press and breathe ‘puffers’ and breath activated Autohalers provide a quick and efficient method of getting medication directly into the lungs. They use an aerosol propellant to produce a fine mist of medication. They are sometimes called ‘Metered Dose Inhalers’ (MDIs).

Dry Powder Inhalers (eg Turbuhaler, Accuhaler and Aerolizer) are breath activated.

Spacers assist in the delivery of aerosol medication particularly during an asthma attack. A spacer device is as effective as a nebuliser when using equivalent amounts of medication.

Peak Flow Meters measure the rate at which air can be breathed out of the lungs and help monitor your asthma.

Nebuliser Pumps are used for delivery of medication through an electric pump.

THE SIX STEP ASTHMA MANAGEMENT PLAN

Step 1 - Know how severe your asthma is
Ask your doctor whether your asthma is mild, moderate or severe. Make sure you describe all your symptoms. If you are at risk of severe asthma attacks, you will need close follow-up.
Step 2 - Achieve your best lung function
Your doctor can help you find out how your lungs can function at their best. Taking the correct asthma medication is most important.
Step 3 - Identify and avoid your known asthma triggers
Try to avoid anything you know brings on your asthma.
Step 3 - Stay at your best
Understand your medications and use them as your doctor directs. This will control your symptoms and reduce the risk of asthma attacks.
Step 1 - Have a written Asthma Action Plan
Develop a written Asthma Action Plan with your doctor. This will help you to know how to recognise worsening asthma symptoms, how to treat them quickly and when to seek medical help.
Step 2 - Check your asthma regularly
Manage your asthma by following your personal written Asthma Action Plan and seeing your doctor regularly for asthma education and review. This will help control your asthma and achieve a better quality of life. The Asthma 3+ Visit Plan is a good way to do this. Ask your doctor about this program.

Take advantage of our resources, including pamphlets, booklets, website, videos and asthma equipment. For individual attention, phone The Asthma Foundation of Victoria to make an appointment.

Address	491-495 King Street West Melbourne VIC 3003
Tel	1800 645 130
Website	www.asthma.org.au