Prepare now for asthma season
A campaign to highlight the spring thunderstorm asthma season and raise awareness of the elevated risk of flare-ups launched this week with a focus on how all members of the family can be impacted by asthma related conditions.
Members of the Thunderstorm Asthma Collaborative met this week to raise awareness of the elevated risk of flare-ups associated with spring thunderstorms. From left, Tony Burns, Denise Garner, Bruce Graham, Robyn Paton, Jeff Angel, Thiru Vanniasinkam, Margot Schoonmaker.
Thunderstorm Asthma Collaborative Chair Robyn Paton said asthma flare-ups traditionally increase in spring throughout the Murrumbidgee due to high pollen counts, in conjunction with thunderstorm related weather conditions.
“Colds and flu, wheezing and sneezing, have been in abundance over the winter months along with a continuance of COVID-19,” Ms Paton said.
“Mix these conditions with elevated levels of pollen and the typical thunderstorms during late spring, and we may be at risk of experiencing an increase of respiratory related conditions such as asthma flare-ups.
“People who suffer from hayfever and sinus symptoms should discuss with their GP the most appropriate management of symptoms to avoid escalation, reduce severe flare-ups, and hopefully avoid the need to call an ambulance or go to hospital.”
Community member Jeff Angel has lived with asthma for many years and knows how important an asthma action plan is for managing the condition.
“Being informed is key; the asthma action plan I have in place is a critical tool in managing the condition and it’s excellent to have on hand to refer to when conditions change,” Mr Angel said.
“By staying connected with my GP and having an up-to-date asthma action plan, my family can be fully aware of how to help manage and minimise my asthma flare ups.”
The annual spring thunderstorm asthma campaign is promoted by the Thunderstorm Asthma Collaborative which includes representatives from Murrumbidgee Local Health District, Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network, Wagga Wagga Base Hospital, Charles Sturt University, Asthma Australia, Wagga Wagga City Council, and community groups.