Asthma is a disease that affects people’s breathing. People with asthma have sensitive airways. People often think of asthma as being just a children’s disease. Although it is common in children, anyone can get asthma.
Around 2 million Australians have asthma. But the good news is that we can control asthma. Most people with asthma can live a healthy life if they look after themselves well.
What can I do about asthma?
If you think you could have asthma, meet your general practitioner. Your general practitioner can help you make a plan to control it.
There are two types of medication that you can take. Preventers are taken regularly to help avoid asthma attacks, and relievers are taken when you have the symptoms of asthma. Common asthma triggers include colds, pets, pollens and dust mites.
This information is contributed by New Sales Wales Health Department http://www.health.nsw.gov.au
