Nearly 10% of Australians have Asthma. Australia has one of the highest prevalence of asthma in the world. Untreated allergies can make asthma control more difficult.
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Coughing
- Tightness in the chest
The united airway disease is a concept linking the inflammation of both the upper airway and lower airways in people with allergic disease. Around 80% of asthmatics suffer from rhinitis and around 1 in 4 with rhinitis have asthma. There is accumulating evidence that treatment of rhinitis improves asthma control and reduces exacerbation. Therefore, seeing Doctors looking for this connection may help.
Outside of inhaler pharmacotheraphy, we can discuss the role of immunotheraphy or Xolair for patients. We can discuss the importance of correcting dysfunctional breathing habits and reducing nasal obstruction.
Estimates vary however the WAO (World Allergy Organization) report that 10% of asthmatics have uncontrolled asthma despite medication.
If you think your asthma could be better controlled, then consider a review.
Most asthma is allergic asthma. This means allergens such as:
- Dust Mite
- Pet dander
- Pollen and grasses
- Mould
- Workplace allergens such as flour or latex
can trigger your asthma and therefore knowing which triggers your asthma is an important part of managing your asthma.
Firstly by seeing a trained Doctor we can help diagnose asthma, assess your asthma control and whether your control could be improved and then help you manage it comprehensively.
We can start by helping you avoid triggers or allergens by finding out what you’re allergic to and how you can reduce your exposure to these triggers.
We can offer you medical treatments, monitor your progress and exclude whether common associated conditions such as sinusitis, reflux, blocked nose or obesity are contributing to symptoms control.
We can consider how other specialists such as respiratory or ENT may be needed in your treatment plan.
We can arrange an up to date Asthma Action Plan for you and review how you are using your medications.
We can determine if allergen immunotheraphy may be suitable option for you.
We can look after your airway long term and ensure you don’t suffer from complications of any of your treatments and keep your vaccinations up to date.