Page 8 - Asthma/COPD

Ever been to the doctors and they’ve asked you to blow into a funny little tube with numbers along the side? This is a peak flow meter, and a peak flow meter is a necessity for asthmatics. In summary, it’s a device measures how quickly you are able to expel air from your lungs by blowing as hard as you can into this small, handheld device. These can be bought from pharmacies for home use or can be available via prescription as well. Want to know the importance of a peak flow meter? Let’s start from the basics…

Ventolin is a prescription only medicine created by GlaxoSmithKlein plc (GSK plc) that is prescribed to those with asthma or COPD. It is incredibly popular amongst those with asthma, known as ‘the blue inhaler’ more commonly. It comes in the form of a small, blue handheld device with an aerosol  cannister on the inside that administers the drug from the mouthpiece and helps those with asthma to breathe clearly.

In the warmer months, people in the UK love to spend time outdoors with their family and friends. Outdoor events, festivals, cookouts, and concerts are common outdoor pastimes in the summer. Most people only have to worry about packing sunglasses and a hat when they plan to spend time outside, if you have asthma or allergies, you have a lot more to worry about than the sun getting in your eyes.

A COPD diagnosis doesn’t mean you have to give up on all the activities you enjoy, including travelling. With some time and consideration, and proper management of your condition, you can continue living a fulfilling and enriching life.

Being active is an important part of everyday life – with its multiple health benefits, both physically and emotionally. With asthma, something that hinders the very fundamentals of any kind of physical activity, there is a hardly discussed list of rules and regs that all asthma sufferers quietly abide by to keep themselves out of sticky situations.

Admit it, fellow asthmatics. There’s nothing more cathartic than snagging your inhaler from wherever

What is Ventolin/ Salbutamol and why is it prescribed?

Ventolin/ Salbutamol are treatments prescribed for asthma.

Each year on the 10th September, people around the world gather to raise awareness about suicide prevention. By raising awareness, we are reducing the stigma around suicide.

Asthma is a condition that affects your breathing.  It currently affects approximately 8 million people in the UK (approximately 12% of the population), and over 300 million people worldwide. Asthma can vary in severity, from a mild wheeze to a severe breathing difficulty. It can be fatal and it’s important to get a formal diagnosis from a doctor or asthma nurse.

World Breast Cancer Research Day is an opportunity for us all to see how important it is to find a cure for breast cancer.