What should you know about BTS asthma?

Most people with asthma notice episodes of wheezing, cough, chest tightness or shortness of breath, although symptoms can differ by person and may change over time. Triggers can include viral infections, allergens, smoke, exercise, cold air or workplace irritants. Allergic rhinitis and house dust mite allergy may coexist with asthma. A clinician considers the symptom pattern and may arrange breathing tests before confirming the diagnosis.

Use prescribed inhalers exactly as directed and have your technique checked, because medicine left in the mouth may not reach the airways effectively. Keep a written action plan that explains your regular treatment, what to do when symptoms increase and when to seek help. Reduce known triggers where practical, avoid tobacco smoke and attend reviews if night symptoms, activity limits or reliever use are increasing. A nebuliser may be used in acute care when inhaled medicine needs to be delivered with support.

Seek urgent medical help if breathing is rapidly worsening, you cannot speak comfortably, your reliever is not helping as directed, or you become drowsy, confused or exhausted. Do not drive yourself if breathing is severe. A sudden attack can become dangerous even when previous episodes were mild.

Ask what type of inhaler you use, how often it should be taken, how to recognise loss of control and when your action plan should change. Ask whether allergies, reflux or another condition could be contributing to your symptoms.