Asthma

Asthma is a common long-term or chronic condition that affects the airways, causing occasional breathing difficulties. The condition affects approximately 5 million people in the UK and often starts in childhood. The most common symptoms are:

• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Breathlessness
• A tight chest

For most people these symptoms will come and go, however for others they are very persistent. Where symptoms get temporarily worse, the problem is referred to as an asthma attack.

The doctor will be able to carry out a number of tests including:

• Spirometry
• Peak expiratory flow rate test
• Airway responsiveness test

These tests will help in determining how well the lungs are functioning. Many other conditions can cause the same types of symptoms so the doctor may also refer you for a chest x-ray to rule out other lung problems. If diagnosed, the condition is normally treated by:

• Avoiding triggers such as allergens and exercise
• Reliever or preventer inhalers

If you think you may have asthma or are suffering from the above symptoms, book an appointment with our doctors to help diagnose the problem by calling 02074991581or filling out our online form.