Asthma affects 1 in 10 Australians.
As colds and influenza are more common in winter, the change of climate can trigger asthma attacks in children.
Breathing in cold air, wood smoke, and mould associated with winter climates, can also induce asthma symptoms.
Asthma symptoms include:
- coughing – possibly starting with a dry cough
- wheezing – a whistling or high pitched sound which may be heard as air is pushed out of narrow tight airways
- shortness of breath – breathing may become quicker and shallow. This leads to breaths out which are prolonged and forced
- tight chest – younger children may describe tummy ache, due the work of the “tummy” muscle (diaphragm) to assist with the work of breathing
- possible vomiting associated with severe attacks.
Severe asthma symptoms include:
- feeling very distressed and frightened
- gasping for breath
- being unable to speak more than single words
- struggling to breathe
- frequently sucking in at the throat and tummy (stomach).
Life threatening asthma symptoms include:
- being unable to move and speak
- appearing pale and blue around the lips
- no audible wheezing.
Asthma can be treated by using medicated inhalers.
What you need to do
If you have asthma and are experiencing symptoms, follow the advice of your asthma action plan.
People experiencing asthma for the first time, should see their doctor for a diagnosis.
If you, your child, or someone you know is experiencing severe or life threatening asthma symptoms seek urgent medical attention and phone triple zero (000) for an ambulance.