Asthma warning after spike in Tamworth ED presentations
5 November 2008
Tamworth Hospital Emergency physicians are asking people with asthma to ensure their condition is under control this week, after a spike in asthma attack presentations to the emergency department over the weekend.
Tamworth Hospital Director of Emergency Dr Nick Ryan said thunderstorms, strong winds and a high concentration of pollen in the air at this time of year meant asthmatics were at an unusually high risk of having an asthma attack.
"On Saturday (2 November) we treated 20 people with asthma, which is a lot more than our usual one or two on the weekend," Dr Ryan said.
"The peak in asthma attacks can be linked with the current weather conditions, such as strong wind and thunderstorms, which blow dust and grass pollen into the air.
"Asthmatics could find themselves more vulnerable than usual to asthma triggers, or substances that cause asthmas attacks, such as dust and pollen in windy conditions.
"If you feel as though an asthma attack is coming on it's important to follow the instructions on your asthma plan and take your medication before deciding to come to the emergency department.
- Symptoms of an asthma attack can include:
- Tightness in the chest
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing (a high pitched raspy sound on breathing)
- Coughing
"If you don't have an asthma action plan, updated medication or you haven¡¦t consulted your GP about your asthma in a long time, this is a good time to see your GP to make sure your control plan is up-to-date and able to control your condition," Dr Ryan said.
For more information about asthma speak to your GP or go to www.asthmansw.org.au
Contact: Emma Gibbs
Phone: (02) 6767 7137 or 0428 114 767