Asthma and Allergy

What you should know
Contents
Asthma and allergy facts
What is allergy?
What is asthma?
What role does allergy play in your asthma?
Allergy tests
How can you avoid allergens?
Pets, pollen, mould, food
Medication
Immunotherapy and asthma
Can you do anything to reduce the risk of your child developing asthma?

Further information

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist or contact the following organisations:

Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy	www.allergy.org.au
Asthma Foundations of Australia
Contact your local Asthma Foundation on 1800 645 130 or visit their websites:
Asthma Australia	www.asthmaaustralia.org.au
Asthma Foundation of New South Wales	www.asthmansw.org.au
Asthma Foundation of Northern Territory	www.asthmant.org.au
Asthma Foundation of Queensland	www.asthmaqld.org.au
Asthma Foundation of South Australia	www.asthmasa.org.au
Asthma Foundation of Tasmania	www.asthmatas.org.au
Asthma Foundation of Victoria	www.asthma.org.au
Asthma Foundation of Western Australia	www.asthmawa.org.au
National Asthma Council	www.NationalAsthma.org.au
Asthma	www.health.gov.au/pq/asthma
HealthInsite	www.healthinsite.gov.au

© Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing 2004

Disclaimer

It is important to note that information contained in this brochure is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Any questions regarding a medical diagnosis or treatment should be directed to a medical practitioner.

Acknowledgments

This brochure is based on published evidence and editing by medical specialists who are members of the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA). Participants and references to this brochure are included on the ASCIA website www.allergy.org.au

ASCIA is the peak professional body for clinical immunologists and allergists in Australia.

Representatives from the National Asthma Council, Asthma Foundations of Australia and the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing were also involved in editing this brochure.

This series on Asthma Topics for Consumers comprises eight separate titles:

1 Asthma and Allergy
2 Asthma and Lung Function Tests
3 Asthma and Pain Relievers
4 Asthma and Air Pollution
5 Asthma and Complementary Therapies
6 Asthma and Infant Bedding
7 Asthma and Diet in Early Childhood
8 Asthma and Wheezing in the First Years of Life

To access these documents log on to: www.NationalAsthma.org.au or contact your local Asthma Foundation on 1800 645 130.