THACKLEY TRUMPIT DECEMBER 2013 HEALTH MATTERS

Health Matters- Dealing With Asthma as the Cold Weather Sets In...

By Consultant Pharmacist - Nick Parmar

As the temperatures drop and colds and flu are on the increase, asthmatics may find that their condition worsens. If you're one of the 5.4 million people with asthma in the UK, then the following advice on how to deal with asthma as   winter arrives may be of benefit to you…

Why does asthma get worse at this time of year?

So you might wonder why asthmatics suffer more during the winter months. Its usually one of two reasons - One, the air is cold and dry which can trigger an asthma attack and two, having a cold or flu can worsen asthma considerably. The signs of worsening asthma symptoms may include wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, a cough and waking up during the night.

How to deal with worsening asthma caused by winter weather, colds and flu

If your asthma is well-controlled, you are less likely to suffer during the winter months. The best piece of advice we at Thackley Pharmacy can give is that asthma sufferers keep their condition under control by using their medication as  prescribed by their doctor. Regular use of a preventer inhaler can stop asthma attacks from occurring so reducing the need of a 'reliever' inhaler which is used once an attack has set in. In order to ensure that inhaler treatment is sufficient and appropriate during the winter months, it is vital to have regular asthma reviews with your doctor or pharmacist. Here at Thackley, our pharmacist will happily review your inhaler use during a 'Medicines Use Review'. If you are using your reliever inhaler more regularly or, perhaps your 'preventer' inhalers aren't doing the trick, our pharmacist will advise you on your inhaler technique and may refer you to your doctor if he feels that your asthma treatment needs amending to get you through the winter months.

Colds and flu are the main culprits for causing asthma attacks around this time of year. Those with asthma who happen to get the flu are at a higher risk than the general population of developing complications of influenza, such as bronchitis and pneumonia. Because of this, it is important that measures are taken to avoid the flu. The best way to prevent      influenza is to have the 'flu jab'. It does not 100% guarantee you will not suffer from the flu but it does make the chances of you getting the flu less likely and significantly reduces the severity of the illness. No matter how old you are, those with respiratory illnesses including asthma are eligible for the flu jab. If you need any advice ask our pharmacist or visit your GP.

Having good hygiene is the best way to avoid illnesses       including coughs, colds and flu. Washing your hands regularly can help reduce the likelihood of you catching a cold,          especially if your work colleagues or family members are coughing and sniffling!

Generally keeping warm and looking after yourself at this time of year is very important. If you're venturing out on a cold day make sure you wrap up warm. Cold air may trigger an asthma attack, so wearing a scarf over your nose and mouth can help warm up the air before you breathe it in reducing the risk of the cold air causing an attack. 

Win the war with worsening asthma this winter...

To give you the best chance of keeping your asthma under control this winter follow this advice:

-  Avoid going out if possible on very cold, windy days.
-  If you do have to venture out, wear a scarf over your nose and mouth and keep yourself warm.
-  Make extra effort to take your regular medications and ensure that you keep your reliever inhalers close by in case of an attack.

-  Don't be afraid to pop by and speak to the Pharmacist here at Thackley if you have any concerns about your condition or feel like your asthma isn't under control.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!