Asthma is a condition that affects the smaller airways (bronchioles) of the lungs. From time to time the airways constrict (narrow) in people who have asthma. This causes the typical symptoms. The extent of the narrowing, and how long each episode lasts, can vary greatly.
Asthma can start at any age, but it most commonly starts in childhood. At least 1 in 10 children, and 1 in 20 adults, have asthma. Asthma runs in some families, but many people with asthma have no other family members affected.
What are the symptoms of untreated asthma?
The common symptoms are cough and wheeze. You may also become breathless, and develop a feeling of chest tightness. Symptoms can range from mild to severe between different people, and at different times in the same person. Each episode of symptoms may last just an hour or so, or persist for days or weeks unless treated.
External Links
The following factsheets available from Patient UK gives information and advice on a variety of asthma related topics:
Management of Childhood Asthma
Medicines inside inhalers; types of inhaler devices
Asthma + Lung UK– the charity dedicated to improving the health and well-being of people in the UK whose lives are affected by asthma.
What care you should receive from the practice – The Team
Our practice nurses have specialist asthma qualifications. They run clinics in order for asthma to be assessed, advice offered, queries answered and correct treatment ensured.
Patients on asthma medication should be seen at least once a year in the asthma clinic for a check up with the nurse.
