Asthma

Most asthma patients will require regular treatment to reduce the symptoms and also treatment for relief when acute symptoms occur. Your treatment will depend on how troublesome your asthma is and may change from time to time. The aim is to keep you well and your asthma controlled on the lowest possible dose of medicine.

If asthma is suspected there are several methods by which it can be diagnosed. The method will be determined by the Doctor/Practice Nurse. Once diagnosed with asthma the patient will be commenced on the most appropriate treatment in the asthma clinic.

Asthma annual review: what to expect

It is recommended that every asthma patient is reviewed annually by a nurse with a special interest in Asthma, however if treatment is changed or symptoms are not under control you will be asked to attend a review appointment. All asthma appointments are arranged for 15 minutes.

The annual review will include the following:

Recording of symptoms and pattern of symptoms

Height and weight (BMI)· Exercise activity and ability

Associated condition

Determination of asthma type (i.e. exercise or pollen induced)

Asthma trigger factors

Allergies

Family History

Smoking status and smoking cessation advice

Peak flow reading

Inhaler technique and evaluation

Exacerbation and hospital admissions

Asthma management plan

Review appointment: what to expect

Repeat peak flow

Daily symptoms review

Asthma Management plan review