If you or your family have asthma or allergy, you are not alone. More than two million Australians have asthma, and 40% of the population is affected by allergy.

The Sensitive Choice® Living with Asthma & Allergy guides are full of information to help you manage your asthma and allergy. There are tips on how you can reduce your family's exposure to common triggers, and ways to keep asthma and allergy under control.

These guides are supported by some of the products accepted into the Sensitive Choice® program. Look inside for details on how these products relate to asthma and allergy or go to Accepted Products. 

	Your Guide Spring 2009 Whether you want information on how to get rid of those pesky dust mites, tips on spring cleaning all year around or ways to reduce exposure to pet allergens (particularly when the source is a much-loved family member) - the Spring 2009 guide is for you. Go to Living with asthma & allergy Your Guide Spring 2009
	Your Guide Spring 2008 Your Spring 2008 guide is packed with valuable information on managing allergic reactions to bites and stings, controlling hay fever, why you should keep your home and car smoke free, plus a handy First Aid for Asthma chart. Go to Living with asthma & allergy Your Guide Spring 2008 Go to Living with asthma & allergy Your Guide Spring 2008
	Your Guide Autumn 2008 What are the main triggers for Asthma? What are the different types of asthma medicines? Why do I need a written asthma action plan? What causes food allergies? Your Autumn 2008 guide will provide you with answers to these questions plus useful tips on managing your asthma and allergies throughout the year. Go to Living with asthma & allergy Your Guide Autumn 2008

What is allergy?

Allergy occurs when your immune system reacts to substances known as allergens. When exposed to an allergen you are sensitive to, you develop a reaction that leads to redness and swelling. Allergic reactions can affect your: Nose and/or eyes - hay fever Skin - eczema or hives Lungs - asthma The best way to manage allergy is to avoid the allergen that triggers it. 

What is asthma?

Asthma is a disease of the airways...the tubes carrying air to the lungs. With asthma the muscles in the airways tighten, and the airways lining becomes inflamed, producing sticky mucous. The airways therefore become narrow, with less space for air to flow in and out. Most people with asthma only have symptoms when they inhale a trigger that irritates airways; exercise without the right preparation; or catch a cold.

Want to know more?

Your doctor and pharmacist are the best people to help with you and your family's personal asthma and allergy management. They can provide medications if needed and give you practical treatment and lifestyle advice appropriate for your individual situation.

Asthma

To find out more about the diagnosis and management of asthma, visit the National Asthma Council Australia website. Go to: http://www.nationalasthma.org.au/

Allergy

To find out more about the diagnosis and management of allergy, visit the Australian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy website. Go to: http://www.allergy.org.au/content/view/101/49/

Still have questions?

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Content Updated 20 December 2009