How to manage asthma symptoms and triggers
Asthma doesn’t need to stop you from living well. With the right plan and habits in place, many people can manage their asthma effectively. Whether you’re one of the 2.7 million Australians managing asthma, or you support someone who does, taking charge of your health may help improve day-to-day management.
With a solid asthma action plan and small daily changes, you may be better able to manage symptoms. Let's dive into how you can manage asthma – from spotting symptoms to finding treatments that your doctor recommends.
What is asthma?
Asthma is a long-term lung condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it harder to breathe. It's usually triggered by things like allergens, weather changes, exercise or respiratory infections. Some people will only experience symptoms occasionally, while others need to stay more on top of it.
When symptoms get worse and breathing gets tough, that’s an asthma attack. These can come on quickly and may need urgent medical attention – especially if your reliever medication isn’t doing the trick. That’s why having a clear asthma action plan is so important. It helps you recognise the signs early and know the steps you can take to act fast.
Asthma symptoms to watch for
Asthma symptoms can come and go – or hang around longer than expected. It helps to be aware of the common symptoms:
Wheezing or a whistling sound when breathing.
Shortness of breath.
Tightness in the chest.
Persistent or regular coughing, especially at night or early morning.
If these symptoms are showing up more often or aren’t improving with your reliever medication book an appointment with your GP. Don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor if things aren't getting better.
Lifestyle and wellbeing
And don’t forget – your overall wellbeing may play a role in asthma management too. Regular exercise, good sleep, a balanced diet and stress management may support overall lung health. Some people report that heat or steam may temporarily ease breathing, but this is not a substitute for medical treatment and should only be considered in consultation with a healthcare professional.
When asthma attacks
Asthma triggers can vary from person to person. Some common triggers include:
Pollen and other environmental factors.
Cold or dry air.
Viral infections like colds and flu.
Smoke or strong odours.
Physical activity.
Stress or intense emotions.
The good news? When you know your triggers, you can take steps to avoid or minimise them. For example, spring and autumn often bring higher pollen levels – something to keep an eye on if you notice flare ups around those times, especially for kids. Knowing your triggers helps you take proactive steps to reduce impact and focus on feeling your best.
Asthma treatment options
While there’s no cure for asthma, it can usually be managed with appropriate treatment. The goal is to reduce inflammation and open your airways. Your treatment plan might include:
Preventer inhalers: Used daily to reduce airway inflammation.
Reliever inhalers: Fast-acting medication used during sudden flare-ups, providing quick relief by relaxing the airways.
Oral medications or other therapies: For more severe asthma, your doctor may recommend additional treatments.
The right treatment plan may improve symptom management in how you manage asthma – so don't hesitate to speak with your GP if something’s not working or your needs change. Taking action now will help you stay on track and keep your health on point.
Plan of attack: Building your asthma action plan
An asthma action plan is a personalised guide created with your GP. It’s a roadmap to help you manage asthma day-to-day and know exactly what to do if things change. Your action plan may include:
Your usual symptoms and medication.
What to do when symptoms worsen.
When to seek emergency help.
With this plan in hand, you’ve got a clear step-by-step guide to follow, making it easier to stay on top of your health and act swiftly if an asthma attack occurs.
Everyday habits to keep your asthma in check
Managing asthma isn’t just about medication. It’s about creating positive, everyday habits that may support your management plan:
Regular check-ups: Keep up with your doctor appointments to review your asthma and adjust your treatment plan if needed.
Stay active: Keep your lungs strong with regular exercise. The more you move, the easier it is to breathe.
Avoid triggers: Whether it’s smoke, allergens or extreme weather, try to stay away from the things that worsen your asthma.
Keep your home clean: Regular cleaning can reduce allergens like dust mites, pet dander and mould that can trigger asthma symptoms.
For parents, it’s important to make sure your child’s asthma action plan is shared with teachers, carers and other people who might be looking after them. This ensures they have the support they need and that reliever medication is always within reach.
Need a little extra support?
If you’re a nib member, you’ve got easy access to a telehealth consultation through the nib app or hub.health. It’s a simple way to stay on top of your care, even when life gets busy. Keeping your health in check means one less thing to worry about, and more peace of mind to focus on what matters most – your wellbeing.
The information in this article is provided as general information only. It is not medical or professional advice and should not replace guidance from your doctor or another qualified health professional.