Asthma
Overview: Asthma is a common condition that affects the airways in the lungs, causing sensitive airways to become inflamed when exposed to triggers, making it difficult to breathe. In Australia, asthma affects 1 in 9 adults and 1 in 5 children.¹
Symptoms: The most common symptoms of asthma are wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and cough, which are often worse at night, in the early morning, or during exercise.² During an attack, warning signs include increased wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing, and needing to use a reliever again within 3 hours of last taking it.²
Causes: The fundamental causes of asthma are not completely understood. The strongest risk factors are a combination of genetic predisposition with environmental exposure to inhaled substances and particles that may provoke allergic reactions or irritate the airways. Triggers can include viral respiratory infections, allergens, tobacco smoke, air pollution, chemical irritants, and strong odours such as perfume.³
Lifestyle Options: Good asthma management involves a healthy lifestyle, following a personal written asthma action plan developed with your doctor, and treating other conditions that can affect asthma, such as hay fever. With good management, you can lead a normal, active life.⁴ Being overweight or obese makes asthma harder to manage, so a balanced diet to maintain a healthy weight is important. Mental health and asthma are also closely linked — if feeling sad or anxious, speak to your doctor.⁵ The 2025 update to the Australian Asthma Handbook contains the latest guidance for people living with asthma.⁶
How your pharmacist can help
During this consultation, your Complete Care pharmacist will assess your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment or self-care options. If your condition requires further medical treatment or procedures, they will advise you on the next steps and referral options.