Asthma

Asthma is a condition where a “trigger” (such as exposure to an allergen, cold air, exercise, or emotional stress) causes a narrowing of a person’s airways (the tubes that carry the air in and out of your lungs). Because of this people often experience shortness of breath, or wheezing, or coughing, and sometimes tightness of the chest.

Asthma is reported to affect 1 in 4 “urban children”, and according to the NHS, approximately one adult in 13 is currently being treated for asthma in the UK. It does not have a single known cause but there are several factors that may contribute to you having the condition and these include a genetic predisposition, diet and/or the environment.

If you or a friend has an asthma attack, the recommended advice is:

• Use an inhaler immediately (if you have one)
• Try to stay calm. 
• Try to breathe slowly and deeply, most people find it easier to sit upright or lean forward slightly.

If the inhaler has no effect after 5 - 10 minutes, and you are still finding it difficult to breathe and talk, feel very distressed or exhausted, then you should get help, and call a doctor or ambulance. Get someone to do this for you if necessary.

For more information, contact The Asthma Helpline on 0845 7010203 (Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm)