What is Asthma? Asthma is a common, long term medical condition that affects the airways (the breathing tubes that carry air into the lungs), causing them to become narrowed and inflamed. Around 1 in 20 people are affected by Asthma, including adults and children. People with Asthma sometimes find it harder to breathe in and [...]
The main 4 symptoms of Asthma are: cough wheeze (a high-pitched, whistling sound when breathing out- this is a common feature of Asthma in children) chest tightness difficulty breathing/ shortness of breath Asthma is often worse at night, which can lead to poor sleep and tiredness. Asthma symptoms are commonly brought on by specific triggers, [...]
Asthma is the most common chronic disease in children. Asthma can start at any age but it most commonly starts in childhood. Approximately 1 in 10 Australians have Asthma. People with a family history of Asthma or allergies may be at higher risk of developing Asthma. Asthma is also more common in people who were [...]
Asthma symptoms may flare up at any time. Common triggers for Asthma include: Infections Hay fever/pollen Exercise Smoking Allergies to animals House dust mite exposure Fumes or chemicals Medications including: Aspirin Anti-inflammatories (e.g Ibuprofen, Diclofenac) Beta-blockers (e.g Propranolol, Atenolol)
Your doctor can usually diagnose Asthma based on the history of your symptoms and by performing a physical examination. Usually no tests are required but further tests can be arranged if required. These include peak flow assessment or spirometry (lung function testing).
Asthma is usually treated with inhalers which deliver medication directly into the lungs. Inhalers are often more effective if used with a spacer device, though some have an in-built delivery system and a spacer is not needed- it’s worth checking with a pharmacist if you’re unsure.. An oral medications may also be used as a [...]
Migraine is a common cause of headache, affecting around 1 in 5 Australians But it’s more than just a headache- there are particular criteria needed to make the diagnosis, so it's important to see a doctor to be certain Common symptoms include a recurring severe throbbing headache that lasts between 4 and 72 hours. It [...]
The cause is not entirely clear. However, a common theory is that blood vessels in parts of the brain become narrower (go into spasm) which causes the aura. The blood vessels are then thought to open wide (dilate) soon afterwards, which accounts for the headache. There may also be a genetic factor involved as it [...]
The diagnosis is usually made by a doctor on the basis of typical symptoms and clinical examination. There are no specific tests Further investigations such as a brain scan and blood tests may be organised to rule out other causes. The diagnostic criteria for classical migraine are: (A) at least 5 attacks must have occurred [...]
It’s not always possible to identify a trigger, but the following things may cause migrainous headaches in some people: Dietary factors- cheese, chocolate, red wine, citrus fruits, and foods containing an additive called tyramine. Excessive dieting. Psychological factors- stress/anxiety, depression and sleep disturbances. Environmental triggers- bright lights, loud noises or strong smells. Medications- for example [...]
