Coronavirus: Advice for asthma sufferers
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ASTHMA sufferers have been urged to keep taking their preventer inhalers regularly during the coronavirus outbreak.
According to Asthma UK, 81 per cent of people with asthma say their symptoms get worse when they have a cold or flu, putting them at risk of a potentially life-threatening asthma attack.
MSP for the Highlands & Islands, Maree Todd said: “This is an anxious time for everyone, especially for those at higher risk due to underlying health conditions. As an asthma sufferer, I know the risks of becoming unwell and how this can trigger an asthma flare up.
“It’s now more important than ever to take preventer inhalers regularly and follow an asthma plan.”
Asthma UK has issued the following advice to reduce the risk of asthma symptoms:
- Keep taking your preventer inhaler daily as prescribed. This will help cut your risk of an asthma attack being triggered by any respiratory virus, including coronavirus.
- Carry your blue reliever inhaler with you every day, in case you feel your asthma symptoms flaring up.
- Download and use an asthma action plan to help you recognise and manage asthma symptoms when they come on.
- If you come down with flu, a cold, or any other respiratory infection, follow our tips for looking after your asthma when you’re not well.
Ms Todd added: “We are now in the midst of a pandemic, it’s crucial that everyone takes preventative measures to minimise the risk of infection.
“To reinforce the latest advice from the NHS and the Scottish Government – if you’ve developed a cough or fever in the last seven days, stay at home for seven days from the day your symptoms started.
"If you are suffering from severe symptoms, or your symptoms haven’t improved in seven days – phone your GP or NHS 24 on 111.”
Advice for asthmatics surrounding Covid-19 asthma action plans can be found on Asthma UK’s website www.asthma.org.uk/advice/triggers/coronavirus-covid-19
The coronavirus outbreak is a rapidly developing situation, the latest updates can be found on the NHS website www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
