ma is not observed on a day-to-day basis. It often goes unnoticed until it becomes quite severe. If one records their peak-flow readings, they can see if their lung function is slowly deteriorating. With this information they can visit their Doctor before serious problems arise.
.....The common types of medications used to treat asthma are broadly grouped into two categories: rescue and prevention medications. The rescue medication, usually the blue inhaler salbutamol, is used in emergency situations of coughing or shortness of breath. Optimally a person with controlled asthma should only use their rescue medication twice a week or before exercise. The prevention medications, whether they are inhalers or tablets, are used to try and reduce lung inflammation and reduce excessive reactions to allergy triggers. Usually these medications are used everyday, often with greater frequency when asthma symptoms are worse. Ask
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your Peoples Pharmacist for more information about your asthma medications. Often Pharmacists have extra training in the area of asthma education.
.....If you are using inhaled medications for asthma, it is important to use these devices properly. In many cases, the use of a ‘space chamber’ will make your aerosol asthma medications work more efficiently and reduce the occurrence of side effects. Even if you have been using inhaled medication for some time, it could prove beneficial to review the proper technique for using your inhaled medications with your Pharmacist. This demonstration may take several minutes, so ask your Peoples Pharmacist for the best time to visit them to discuss the proper use of your asthma inhalers.
.....One question new parents ask about inhaled asthma medications is whether or not the medications can slow their child's vertical growth. This is a good question. |
.....The answer is complicated; yes, inhaled corticosteroids can reduce growth by about 1-2cm per year. Yet, this generally does not affect their expected adult height. However non-controlled childhood asthma can also reduce vertical growth. Interestingly, non-controlled childhood asthma can affect expected adult height.
.....Asthma is a chronic condition that has the potential to adversely affect ones health and lifestyle. As with all chronic health conditions the more you know about the disease, the better your outcome. If someone you know has asthma, it is a great idea to read up on the subject. My favourite places to refer people to learn more are the public library, used book stores and their local Peoples Pharmacist. With more education, any problem will seem like less of a burden.
Written By Ian Lloyd, Pharmacist & Chartered Herbalist
Peoples Pharmacy, Victoria |
WHERE PEOPLE COME FIRST