Asthma

Updated on August 22, 2011 at 12:44 pm

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You will be invited to attend the clinic when your asthma review is due. You will usually be seen by Janet Buist or Karen Hammond.

During the appointment we will review your symptoms, inhalers and perform some breathing tests.

What is asthma?
Asthma is caused by inflammation of the airways. These are the small tubes, called bronchi, which carry air in and out of the lungs. If you have asthma, the bronchi will be inflamed and more sensitive than normal. When you come into contact with something that irritates your lungs (known as a trigger) your airways become narrow, the muscles around them tighten and there is an increase in the production of sticky mucus (phlegm). This makes it difficult to breathe and causes wheezing and coughing. It may also make your chest feel tight.

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