Asthma Flashcards
What is asthma?
- A respiratory condition
- Affects airways in the lungs
- Chronic (long term) condition
- Causes breathing problems
What are some signs and symptoms of asthma?
- Faster breathing
- Faster heartbeat
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Fainting
- Blue lips
- Wheezing
- Coughing
- Confusion
- Exhaustion
What are some triggers of asthma?
- Allergies
- Pollen
- Some chemicals
- Acid reflux
- Air pollution
- Cold air
- Exercise
- Strong emotions
- Some medications
Identify and explain the two main types of Asthma medication.
There are two main types of asthma medications: relievers and preventers. Relievers are used to quickly relieve asthma symptoms, such as wheezing, chest tightness, cough, and shortness of breath. Preventers are used to control asthma and prevent symptoms from happening in the first place.
Approximately how many Australians are asthmatics?
2.7 million Australians (11% of the population)
Explain how Asthma is diagnosed
diagnosed by a doctor based on your medical history, physical exam, and lung function tests
Explain what severe asthma is?
Severe asthma is a type of asthma that is difficult to control with standard treatments. People with severe asthma often have frequent asthma attacks, even when they are taking their medications as prescribed. Severe asthma can be a life-threatening condition.
List 4 signs/symptoms that a person is suffering an asthmatic episode.
- Chest tightness
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Trouble sleeping
What are some avoidable triggers for asthmatics?
- Cigarette’s
- Smoke
- Allergens
What are some unavoidable triggers for asthmatics?
- Air pollution
- Laughter
- Exercise
Explain what a reliever does for an asthmatic and provide 2 examples of common names used for a reliever.
A relief inhaler is used to treat symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheeziness, or feeling tight in the chest. The medication in a relief inhaler relaxes the muscles in the airways, allowing them to expand wider. Symptoms often subside soon.
Two common names: Inhalers and puffers
List two device aids that can be used to help administer asthma medication.
- Spacer
- Nubulizer
Describe the 4-step process we use to administer asthma medication.
- Wash your hands.
- Shake the inhaler well.
- Hold the inhaler in your mouth and breathe in deeply as you press down on the inhaler.
- Hold your breath for 10 seconds, then exhale slowly.
What should you do after a flare-up or asthma attack?
- Rest
- Stay hydrated
- Assess your triggers
- See a doctor
Explain how you can participate in asthma research.
- Surveys
- Clinical trials
