We asked Professor Peter Barnes from the National Heart and Lung Institute at Imperial College, London, what he would want to know if he was diagnosed with asthma.
How can I cope with this condition?
Although asthma is an incurable condition, with good management you should be able to enjoy long symptom-free periods. Your doctor will show you how to use inhalers to relieve or prevent your symptoms. Specialist asthma clinics or asthma nurses attached to your general practice will also help you to keep in control of your asthma. You can learn to recognise the warning signs of an attack, which can be an annoying cough or tightness in the chest.
What can make my asthma worse?
Asthma can be triggered by fumes, smoke, cold air, strong smells, laughter, some foods, stress, as well as the things you are allergic to. More severe asthma attacks are usually set off by viral infections, such as the common cold. Some people’s asthma is triggered by exercise, although attacks can be prevented as long as you use their reliever inhaler before exercising. As a precaution, you should also always have your reliever inhaler with you.
It's a good idea to keep an asthma diary. This helps to identify triggers and can reassure you and your doctor that your asthma is under control. It should contain details of attacks, triggers if known and the amount of medication needed.
What treatment is available?
The most effective preventer treatments are inhaled steroids or combination inhalers that contain a steroid and a bronchodilator. These treatments need to be used twice a day whether you have symptoms or not.
Can I keep smoking?
It's important to stop smoking as this makes asthma worse and interferes with the treatment.
Click here for tips on how to quit.
How do I know if my asthma is getting worse?
If you're using more medication, waking up in the night, becoming breathless or finding it harder to keep up with normal activities, you should see your doctor. Your asthma may be getting out of control. If you have an attack and your inhaler isn’t helping, if you're finding it hard to walk or talk and your heart is racing, get emergency help immediately. Always have your reliever inhaler with you and know what you're going to do if you need medical help.