3 Ways Your Doctor Can Support Your Asthma Management

Asthma can develop in childhood or adulthood, and the management of a person's asthma will often change over the course of their life. Good asthma management is vital to ensure enough oxygen is able to pass through your lungs, and the goal of your treatment plan should be to minimise asthmatic episodes by preventing the airways from becoming inflamed or narrowed and also discouraging the build-up of mucous. As an asthma patient, you'll require check-ups from time to time to ensure the condition is under control, but you should also proactively contact your doctor if your condition seems to be worsening.

Here are three ways your doctor can support your asthma management.

Medication Review

Medication is the primary treatment for asthma, so if feel like your asthma is worsening or your medication isn't as effective as it previously was, your doctor can carry out a medication review and make changes to the dosage or type of medication you have been prescribed. If your airways are inflamed you may also be prescribed a short course of medication, such as an anti-inflammatory, to provide quick relief and minimise your risk of complications from an asthma attack.

Onward Referral

Certain lifestyle changes can help you manage your asthma and may reduce the number of asthmatic episodes you have. Your doctor can discuss your lifestyle with you and make an onward referral for appropriate support where necessary. For example, if you smoke, you can be referred to a smoking cessation clinic, or if you are overweight, you can be referred to a dietician for nutrition guidance and weight management support.

Mental Health Support

It's not unusual for those living with a chronic health condition to experience periods of poor mental health. If living with asthma is causing you to experience anxiety, low moods or panic attacks, speak to your doctor about the impact of your asthma on your mental health. They can let you know about the mental health services you can access, some of which will likely be offered at your medical centre. Some of these services may include a patient support group, one-to-one counselling, group counselling or access to well-being and mindfulness classes.

If you experience a severe asthmatic episode that causes you to struggle with your breathing, you should treat the episode as an emergency and call for an ambulance. However, if you're just concerned about the management of your asthma, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss your options. Reach out to a doctor near you to learn more.


Share