Skip the NI Direct Bar

Employee Advice - Symptoms of Asthma

Asthma is a serious health problem. Thousands of people in Britain have to face the challenges of this disease every day.

Symptoms include severe shortness of breath that can stop you from doing the simplest tasks. Imagine not being able to carry your shopping or walk up the stairs or even play with your children. Some sufferers are unable to work again.

Other symptoms include:

  • wheezing;
  • coughing;
  • chest tightness.

The symptoms can develop right after exposure to a workplace substance. But sometimes symptoms appear several hours later, possibly at night. This can make any link with workplace activities unclear.  Other associated conditions are:

  • rhinitis (sneezing/runny nose);
  • conjunctivitis (itchy and inflamed red eyes).

______________________________________________________________________

Treatment of Asthma

Although there is no cure for asthma, there are some excellent medicines available to help you to control your asthma so that it does not interfere with your daily life.

It is important that you take your asthma medicine properly and that your doctor or asthma nurse has explained how to use inhaler’s properly so that every dose you take gives you the most benefit.

  • your doctor or nurse will also tailor your asthma treatment to your symptoms;
  • you should be offered;
  • care at your GP surgery provided by doctors and nurses trained in asthma management;
  • full information about your condition and how to control it;
  • involvement in making decisions about your treatment;
  • regular checks to ensure that your asthma is under good control and your treatment is right for you(which should be at least once a year);
  • a written personal asthma action plan agreed with your doctor or nurse.



Next: Controlling your Asthma

Return to Asthma Topic Page