Healthy Living Fact Sheets
Living with asthma can sometimes be a challenge. To help make this a little easier we have put together some handy Fact Sheets to help you and your family face these challenges head on.
It’s all about knowing what to do. Our Healthy Living Fact Sheets cover a wide range of topics, from tips on avoiding household allergy triggers to advice on how to stick to your medications.
Please remember that your doctor and pharmacist are the best people to help with you and your family's personal asthma management. They can provide medicines if needed and give you practical treatment and lifestyle advice appropriate for your individual situation.
Bushfires
1st Sep 2011
For people with asthma living in high risk bushfire zones, the bushfire season is time to be on high alert for asthma symptoms. Smoke and increased air pollution from fires can trigger asthma symptoms, as can high emotions such as stress, anxiety and crying.
Dairy Products
1st Apr 2009
Dairy foods have often been suggested as a common trigger for asthma, but there is little scientific evidence to support this myth.
Defence Force Entry Requirements
4th Mar 2010
With good medical management, an up-to-date asthma action plan and regular health check-ups, many people with asthma are now able to realise their ambitions of joining the Australian Defence Force or Emergency Services.
Food Allergies
1st Sep 2011
Food is not a common trigger for asthma. In fact, foods, drinks and food chemicals affect fewer than 5% of people with asthma (fewer than 2% of adults and fewer than 5–6% of children). People with asthma should consume a varied and nutritious diet, including breads and cereals, fruits and vegetables, lean meats, and dairy foods.
Influenza
1st Sep 2011
Influenza is an infection that affects the respiratory system – your nose, throat and lungs (also called your airways). It is caused by the influenza virus. Many people think of influenza as 'the flu' and use this term for common illnesses like head colds. Influenza is much more serious.
Medication Tips
1st Sep 2011
Understanding your medications makes it easier to stick with your treatment. Ask your doctor, pharmacist or asthma educator about the role of each of your medications, and when and how you should to use each one. Following a personalised asthma action plan is the best way to help you manage your asthma - you can develop one with your doctor.
Nebuliser use and care
1st Feb 2012
A nebuliser is a machine used to change liquid medication into a vapour that you can inhale. It works by pumping pressurised air through the liquid to form a fine mist, which can then be breathed in through a mask or mouthpiece.