Question 1

What is an asthma attack?

Accepted Answer

An asthma attack is a sudden aggravation of your asthma symptoms, often due to exposure to an asthma ‘trigger’ such as an allergen (eg. pollen, animal fur, dust) or other irritants (like smoke). During an asthma attack the muscles in your airways tighten, leading to breathlessness, wheezing and coughing.

Question 2

What is an asthma action plan?

Accepted Answer

This is a simple but personalised plan from our doctors which explains how often you should take your inhalers. You will receive this once the doctor has reviewed your questionnaire, if clinically appropriate.

Question 3

Salbutamol inhalers

Accepted Answer

Salbutamol inhalers (the generic name for Ventolin Evohalers, Salamol Easi-Breathe and Salbul) are known as relievers and help to ease the symptoms of asthma.Typically blue in colour, they work by relaxing the muscles in the narrowed airways to allow them to open up. Using a reliever before any periods of exercise can also reduce the likelihood of suffering asthma symptoms while exercising. Relievers get to work immediately, so are essential in treating asthma attacks.It’s important to let our doctors know how often you use your reliever as overuse could be a sign that your asthma is not under control.

Question 4

Beclomethasone and Seretide inhalers

Accepted Answer

Beclomethasone and Seretide inhalers are known as controllers, and help manage swelling and inflammation in the airways. They contain a steroid that reduces the production of mucus in the lungs, thereby helping to ease your breathing.Controllers need to be used regularly to maximise their benefit, as their protective effect builds up over time. Popular brand names include Beclazone, Becotide, and Seretide.

Question 5

Our asthma service

Accepted Answer

If approved by our doctors, your prescription can be used for controller inhalers and up to two reliever inhalers. You'll also benefit from a personalised action plan to help you achieve greater control of your asthma, and on-going doctor support to manage your asthma.

How our service works

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About asthma inhalers

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