Effective management of asthma and allergies can make a world of difference to your everyday life.
If you have asthma your lungs are more susceptible to being hit hard by colds and flu. By following these important steps you can make sure your lungs are in the best possible shape for the challenging winter.
Make an appointment with your doctor and ask for a lung function test (spirometry). It's the best way to measure the health of your lungs and identify whether you need to make any changes to your asthma management.
Flu hits hard and fast. Most people feel like they've been hit by a brick wall. It is important to keep in mind that a runny nose or cough does not mean you have flu, however if you are unwell and experiencing an increase in asthma symptoms make sure you contact your doctor immediately and follow your written asthma action plan. If you haven't got one yet, ask your doctor to develop one with you.
Tell your doctor if you have been using a reliever or rescue inhaler more than twice a week or are having asthma symptoms frequently during the day or night. These are important signs that your lungs may not be in the best condition for winter colds and flu. If you have been prescribed a preventer medication make sure you use it - even if you feel well.
For the older person with asthma, winter can be quite a challenge. Developing a cold or influenza may have much greater impact on an older person because of other conditions for which they are already being treated such as:
Care needs to be taken with the medicines older people may need including groups such as aspirin, NSAIDs and beta blockers as these drugs may trigger asthma.