Asthma-free summer fun

When it comes to asthma, the motto at the Wishing Well Clinic is, ‘I have asthma, but asthma doesn’t have me’.

“With many families heading away for the summer holidays, it’s easy to forget asthma medicine routines,” said Doctor Kin Lee.  

Keeping holidays asthma-free and fun-filled means planning ahead. In addition to packing your usual asthma medicine, think about your holiday destination. If it’s outdoors ask yourself if different flowers, pollens, animals and grasses are likely to trigger your asthma?

If you’re booking cabins or hotels, request a smoke and fragrance-free room. Bring your own bedding or pack hypoallergenic sleep sacks.

“Many asthma patients overlook planning for bushfire and campfire smoke,” said Doctor Lee. “Smoke is a common trigger for many asthmatics.”

Asthmatics holidaying where smoke might be a risk should continue using their preventer or combination medication and ensure they have plenty of reliever medication with them at all times.

“It’s also a smart idea to have an asthma check-up before you leave,” said Doctor Lee. “It’s the perfect time revisit your asthma action plan and update scripts.”

Ensuring an asthma-free, fun filled summer holiday is as simple as taking your preventer (or combination) medicine every day, even when you don’t have symptoms, and making sure your reliever (puffer) —­ and spacer — are handy at all times.

“A puffer left in the glovebox of a car, or on the dash, is likely to be ineffective,” said Doctor Lee. “Reliever puffers should be stored below 25 degrees.”

Remember, your puffer is your asthma emergency first aid. Keep it cool; keep it close-by and enjoy the summer.

Download the Asthma & Bushfire Smoke brochure.