Dangers of asthma highlighted on World Asthma Day

[Posted: Tue 01/05/2012 by Gillian Tsoi www.irishhealth.com]

One person dies every week from asthma in Ireland, it has been revealed.

Today is World Asthma Day and the Asthma Society of Ireland is urging sufferers of the illness to take better control over their condition.

The organisation has launched an ‘asthma attack card’, which provides information on how to handle an attack in an emergency situation. It is designed to educate people in Ireland about the the five key steps to take in an asthma-related emergency.

Approximately 400 people visit an emergency department every week for help during an asthma attack.

Dr Jean Holohan, CEO of the Asthma Society of Ireland, said that controlling the disease is vital.

“Fifty asthma-related deaths a year is too high,” she said. “These deaths are so tragic and affect families, friends and entire communities.” 

People with asthma are being urged to consult their healthcare provider to discuss control measures to prevent attacks.

“Asthma can be well controlled in the majority of people but the Asthma Society of Ireland gets hundreds of calls every month from patients, concerned parents, schools, sports and community groups seeking advice and support,” said Dr Holohan.

Asthma is an inflammatory lung condition that affects one in 10 Irish people.

Its symptoms include repeated episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and nighttime or early morning coughing.

There are several triggers for asthma attacks, including colds and flus, cigarette smoke, exercise, and allergic responses to pollen, animals, birds or dust mites.

Although asthma cannot be cured, there is reliever medication available which eases the tightening of the airways. Meanwhile preventative medication makes the airways less sensitive.

For more information about the condition, visit our Asthma Clinic.

See also: One asthma death too many