Currently, there are 2.5 million people living with asthma in Australia, which is more than the population of Brisbane. Asthma affects one in 10 children and adults.
So we are encouraging all Australians with asthma to breathe better and feel better on World Asthma Day (May 3 2016) by following our five-step healthy living plan.
Whether you want to dance all night, score the winning goal or chase after the grandkids, don’t let your asthma stop you being physically active. If getting active causes asthma symptoms, tell your doctor so you can get the right treatment.
A healthy diet with lots of fresh fruit and vegies (and not too many take-aways!) is good for your lungs as well as your waistline. There’s no need to avoid dairy foods unless you have a diagnosed dairy food allergy or intolerance.
Being overweight can make asthma harder to manage, plus lead to sleeping problems or reflux. If you are overweight, losing just 5 or 10kg could make you feel better and breathe more easily. Start by talking to your doctor.
Asthma can be harder to manage if you have depression or anxiety, and asthma can also affect your mental health. If your asthma is getting you down or you feel anxious, talk to your doctor.
Smoking and asthma is a dangerous combination. Smoking, or breathing in other people’s smoke damages your lungs and stops your asthma puffers working properly. Your doctor or pharmacist can help, or contact Quitline (13 QUIT).
For more information check out our other great factsheets and brochures including:
