28 August 2007

As part of National Asthma Week (1-7 September), Taree Community Health’s new Respiratory Rehabilitation Nurse Franz Schubert will be holding an information stall to help make people aware of ways to reduce the impact of asthma on their lives.

Franz said asthma is a very common condition, where the small airways in the lungs temporarily narrow, making breathing more difficult. While there are no known causes or cures, there are a number of known potential triggers to avoid, and reliever medications that can make life easier.

He said about one in 10 people have some form of asthma, and he is hoping that as many people as possible will come along on Thursday 6 September to the Asthma Week stand at Taree City Centre between 8.30am and 4pm, to find out more about this condition.

“We’ll be helping people to find out more about the use and maintenance of asthma devices, the latest medications and how they work, and the importance of adhering to an asthma management plan.

“Knowing about what asthma is and how it affects you has a big impact on your ability to control the symptoms,” he said.

Franz said his new Respiratory Rehabilitation role covers support for people with asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), tracheotomies, laryngectomies and running the Forster Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program.

“This Respiratory Rehabilitation Service will complement the other formal rehab program in Taree, with me specifically focusing on respiratory (lung) problems in the Great lakes area.

“The rest of my time is taken up supporting people with asthma across the Lower Mid North Coast, and people can call me to make an appointment at Taree Community Health on 6592 9504.

“There are a number of other places where people can get information about asthma as well. Firstly, your GP is a good source of knowledge, but there are also places on the internet such as the Asthma Foundation (www.asthmaaustralia.org.au ) which is very helpful,” Franz said.

He said all people are welcome to pop into the Asthma stand, which will be located just inside the Manning Street entrance of the Taree City Centre.

Contact: Kay Cope

Phone: 6776 9817