People often treat their asthma as a short-term condition that comes and goes. But asthma is a chronic condition that’s always there, even when you don’t have symptoms.

An Asthma Action Plan is something developed with a Dr to help recognise worsening asthma and gives clear instructions on what to do during an asthma flare-up and should include instructions about managing asthma at the onset of a cold or flu.

Every child with asthma should have their own Asthma Action Plan. With your GP, develop or update a written Asthma Action Plan at least every 12 months and ensure your child’s school is given a copy.

Research shows that using an Asthma Action Plan can help:

• Better control asthma
• Reduce the number of asthma attacks
• Reduce the number of days off school
• Reduce reliever medication use
• Reduce hospitalisations
• Improve lung function

Visit www.asthmaaustralia.org.au for more information

Emma Middleton, Primary School Health Nurse for Huonville, Cygnet & Glen Huon Primary Schools