Medication
Asthma Action Plan
A written Asthma Action Plan developed in consultation
with your doctor should include your asthma medication and how this may need
to be increased or decreased, depending on your asthma symptoms. Your Asthma
Action Plan needs to be regularly reviewed by your doctor.
Allergic rhinitis
If you have untreated allergic rhinitis (hay fever) it can be
more difficult to control your asthma symptoms.
Nasal corticosteroid sprays are the most effective
long-term medication for allergic rhinitis (hay fever). Like preventer
medication for asthma, they need to be used regularly over time. When used
in this way, they can improve the control of your asthma and lessen the need
for asthma medication.
Non-sedating antihistamines are also used to treat
allergic rhinitis (hay fever) symptoms and are safe for people with asthma.
Medications that may cause some problems
• Some prescribed and over the counter medications
such as aspirin, non steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines and beta blockers
can aggravate asthma.
• ‘Natural’ treatments such as Echinacea and royal
jelly can cause life-threatening allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) in some
people with asthma.
It is important to inform your doctor and pharmacist of any
medications or ‘natural’ treatments you are taking.
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