Advice for asthmatics on how to cope during Covid-19 crisis
The Asthma Society of Ireland is advising Wicklow people with asthma to be extra vigilant in their asthma management and to follow the advice set out by the HSE, amidst growing coronavirus concerns.
CEO of the Asthma Society Sarah O’Connor said: ‘We have been inundated with calls from individuals with asthma and COPD who are extremely worried about how coronavirus will affect them if they get it and what additional precautions they can take to minimise their chances of contracting the virus. Unfortunately, international data indicates if people with asthma and other respiratory conditions contract coronavirus, the health impact can be more severe; they are more likely to experience complications and to need hospital treatment.
The Asthma Society has been liaising continuously with the HSE over the past number of weeks in relation to this healthcare challenge. We have communicated to the HSE the needs and very acute concerns of respiratory patients. We welcome increased engagement from the HSE with patient organisations and updated advice that has been provided for people in vulnerable groups, such as those with a long-term respiratory illness.’
The Asthma society has urged the HSE to develop specific COVID-19 advice for people with long-term respiratory illnesses, as has already been created for other disease areas, like cancer. ‘People need to know that they are doing everything in their power to manage their illness and protect themselves from coronavirus. They also need reassurance that they will receive the healthcare they need and that employers will recognise their particular vulnerability at this time. Healthcare professionals also need leadership on clinical best practice.’
The hours of the society’s COPD and Asthma Adviceline have been extended to meet increased demand and this free service is available on 1800 44 54 64.
Top Tips for Managing your Asthma:
Take your preventer inhaler as prescribed. This will decrease your risk suffering an asthma attack and reduce your asthma symptoms. Check out the Asthma Society’s information on preventer inhalers here and our recent SafetyCare campaign here
Have an up-to-date Asthma Action Plan which will help you recognise when your asthma is deteriorating – download one here
Have an up-to-date Communications Card which will help you manage your COPD – download one here
Always carry your reliever inhaler (usually blue) with you in case of an asthma emergency – reliever inhaler over-reliance
Know the 5 Step Rule – which will help you manage an asthma attack if one occurs – download our Asthma Attack Card here
Know your asthma triggers in order to avoid them where possible – check out our information on asthma triggers here
Ensure you are practicing proper inhaler technique – check our Inhaler Technique page for demonstrations of all the inhalers on the Irish market here
If your inhaler requires a spacer, we recommend you use one to ensure best medication delivery – check out our information on spacer usage here
Do not smoke and avoid areas where smoke is present if possible
If you feel like your symptoms are deteriorating, or if you are experiencing a ‘new’ fever or ‘new’ cough - call your GP as soon as possible and they will support and advise you.
Get your prescription filled to ensure you have enough medication for one month – the Department of Health and Irish Pharmacy Union have assured us that there is no need to stock up beyond that.