For the past twenty years, treatment for asthma has evolved significantly. Uncertainty and limited treatment options, have been replaced with tailored asthma management plans, which, if adhered to, can greatly improve the quality of life of those with asthma. Stephanie Freeman, aged 47 and daughter Kylie Edmondston, 27, talk about their experiences with asthma over the years.

Stephanie: 

When I was little I had asthma attacks often brought on by bronchitis. When I was about five or six years old, I was sick very often and missed a lot of school and had to repeat Year One. My tonsils and adenoids were removed because the doctor thought that may improve my asthma. Over the years my asthma did improve and I didn't have problems until I was older. I now sometimes get wheezy from certain preservatives, dust and animal hair. My asthma is very mild now so a reliever is enough to stop the wheeze developing to a full attack.

Kylie:

I started having asthma attacks when I was about three years old. These were often triggered by factors such as tobacco smoke, dust and animal hair, especially cats. Sometimes when I got over-excited, such as before going to a friend's party, I would have an asthma attack! I often ended up in hospital for treatment.

When I was about six or seven, I was prescribed preventive (Intal spinhaler)   relieving (Ventolin) medication and was able to manage my asthma pretty well. Over the years my asthma has been pretty much under control and the puffers I use now are a lot easier than the spinhaler was.

I’ve noticed that occasionally if I stop taking my preventive medicine, I start waking in the middle of the night needing my reliever and using it every few hours throughout the day. A few weeks ago even my work colleagues made a comment about how often I was using my Ventolin and asked if I should be taking any other medication. Sure enough, I was soon off sick from work for a couple of days. Now I'm back on my preventive program and I feel a whole lot better. I know it is really important to stick with my preventive medication so that my asthma doesn't take over my life.

Content Updated July, 2001