Asthma

• Is there a single test that can diagnose asthma?


  No, there is no single test to diagnose asthma.
• What initial steps does a GP take to assess for asthma?


  A GP asks about symptoms, examines the person, and reviews their medical history.
• What tool is used by a GP to listen for wheezing sounds in the lungs?


  A stethoscope.
• What does spirometry measure in relation to asthma?


  Spirometry measures how much air a person can breathe out in one breath.
• What is the purpose of the peak flow test?

  The peak flow test measures how hard a person can blow air out into a machine.
• How often may a person be asked to do the peak flow test?


  Several times a day over a few weeks.
• What are the main symptoms of asthma?

  • Coughing
  • Wheezing
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Tightness in the chest
  • Asthma attacks requiring an inhaler
• What can happen if asthma symptoms become severe and untreated?


  Prolonged, untreated asthma can lead to cardiac arrest or death.
• What are the possible causes of developing asthma?


  • Genetics and environmental factors
  • Family history of asthma
  • Other allergy-related conditions
  • Chest infections in childhood
  • Exposure to allergens and cigarette smoke
• What are some allergens that can trigger asthma?

  Pollen, cats, and dogs.
• How can exercise affect asthma?


  Physical activity, especially in cold weather, can worsen asthma, known as exercise-induced asthma.
• What are common triggers of asthma?


  • The common cold
  • Allergies (pollen, animal fur)
  • Irritants (tobacco smoke, spray cleaners)
  • Heightened emotions (stress, laughter)
  • Air pollution
• What is the goal of asthma treatment?


  • Control symptoms
  • Minimize medication use
  • Prevent asthma attacks
  • Maintain normal activity levels
• What are the two main types of inhalers used for asthma treatment?

  Relievers and preventers.
• What is the function of reliever inhalers?

  Reliever inhalers treat symptoms as soon as they start.
• What color are reliever inhalers typically?


  Blue.
• When is a preventer inhaler prescribed?


  When symptoms occur more than three times a week or at night more than weekly.
• What do preventer inhalers contain to help manage asthma?


  Preventer inhalers contain steroids.
• What is the typical color of preventer inhalers?


  Brown.
• What is the purpose of nebulisers in asthma treatment?


  Nebulisers turn liquid asthma medications into a fine mist for inhalation.
• How do individuals use nebulisers?


  Individuals breathe in the mist using a mouthpiece or face mask.