Understanding lung health

Maintaining healthy lungs is essential for overall wellbeing. Chronic lung conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can significantly impact your quality of life. Early detection, regular monitoring and effective management are key to living well with these conditions.

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways, causing them to become inflamed and narrow. This inflammation can lead to wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and coughing. Asthma can vary in severity, from mild intermittent symptoms to severe persistent symptoms that can significantly affect daily life. While there is no cure for asthma, it can be effectively managed with the right treatment and lifestyle adjustments.

Asthma management

Proper management of asthma is essential for controlling symptoms and preventing asthma attacks. Your community pharmacy offers a range of services to support asthma management, including:

  • Asthma action plans: Pharmacists can help you develop a personalised asthma action plan to manage your symptoms and respond to asthma triggers.
  • Medication reviews: Regular reviews of your asthma medications can ensure you are using them effectively so they are working well, and assist you to work towards adjusting dosages as needed.
  • Education and support: Pharmacists can provide education on asthma triggers, symptom management and lifestyle changes to support lung health.

Asthma inhaler assistance

If you have asthma, getting the most out of your inhaler is crucial for managing your condition effectively. Many people don't use their inhalers correctly, which can impact how well the medication works and how well your asthma is controlled.

How your pharmacist can help

Your pharmacist can show you how to use 'spacers' and 'face masks' with your inhaler to make it more effective and easier to use. They can also check if you're using your medication correctly and discuss any concerns or questions you have about managing your asthma.

Key facts

  • Up to 90% of people with asthma don’t use their inhalers correctly.1
  • Only 10-40% of people use their prescribed preventer medicine at the correct timings to be effective.2
  • Only 33% of people with asthma have an asthma action plan.3

COPD assessment and management

COPD is a progressive lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. It includes conditions such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Early detection and proper management can help slow the progression of COPD and improve your quality of life.

Your community pharmacy may offer COPD assessment and management services, including:

  • COPD screening: Ask your pharmacists if they can perform screening tests to identify COPD early. This may include spirometry, a test that measures lung function.
  • Medication reviews: Pharmacists can review your medications to ensure they are effective and help manage any side effects.
  • Inhaler technique: Proper use of inhalers is crucial for managing COPD. Pharmacists can show the correct technique and provide tips for effective use.
  • Lifestyle advice: Pharmacists can offer advice on lifestyle changes to support lung health, such as smoking cessation, exercise and nutrition.
  • COPD action plan support: Pharmacists can help patients understand their action plan and recognise when their symptoms require further medical attention.

Note: While pharmacists in Queensland are taking part in a pilot program to expand their role in COPD monitoring management, the specific services available vary across different states and territories in Australia.

It's important to check with your local community pharmacy to determine the specific services they offer.


Find a pharmacy near you for asthma support or COPD assessment and management

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