Asthma is a common condition that affects the airways. The typical symptoms are wheeze, cough, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Asthma cannot be ‘cured’, but treatment usually works well to ease and prevent symptoms. Treatment is usually with inhalers.

It is vital that you learn how to use your inhalers correctly. In some people, symptoms persist simply because they do not use their inhaler properly, and the drug from the inhaler does not get into the airways properly. See your practice nurse or doctor if you are not sure if you are using your inhaler properly.

See a doctor or nurse if symptoms are not fully controlled, or if they are getting worse. For example, if:
* a night time cough or wheeze is troublesome.
* sport is being affected by symptoms.
* your peak flow readings are lower than normal.
* you need a reliever inhaler more often than usual.
An adjustment in inhaler timings or doses may control these symptoms.

See a doctor urgently if you develop severe symptoms that are not eased by a reliever inhaler. In particular, if you have difficulty talking due to shortness of breath. You may need emergency treatment with high dose reliever drugs and other treatments, sometimes in hospital. A severe asthma attack can be life-threatening.

You should have an influenza immunization every autumn (the annual ‘flu jab’) if you require regular treatment for asthma or if you have had a previous severe episode of asthma. Flu tends to be more serious if you have asthma.