As our firefighters continue the heroic job of containing bushfires, many people may be affected by smoke.
Signs of smoke irritation include itchy eyes, sore throat, runny nose and coughing. Those with pre-existing medical conditions such as asthma may have worsened symptoms of wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing. If this is you it is very important to continue your prescribed medication and seek medical help.
To reduce your exposure, stay indoors and close the windows and doors. If you are using an air conditioner switch it to recycle or recirculate to reduce the smoke indoors.
If you or anyone around you is concerned by their symptoms please pop by and see me in clinic
Asthma affects around 2.5 million Australians - that’s 1 in every 9, and a common reason for poor control is inhaler technique.
As part of asthma week I want to make sure that all asthmatics have an up to date action plan in place. This ensures that you and others around you know what to do if your asthma worsens. So I’ll be giving you the opportunity to pop by and check your inhaler technique to make sure your getting the most out of your medication.
If you haven’t been diagnosed with asthma but have symptoms, such as breathlessness, wheezing, cough or a feeling of tightness in the chest worse in cold weather then come and see me for an examination. With the correct inhalers, asthma is easily controlled. Left alone asthma can be life threatening so it’s important that if you do have asthma you have regular check ups.
