1st-7th September is National Asthma Week; Asthma is a disease of the airways - sometimes it's harder for a person with asthma to breathe, other times their breathing is normal. Why do we need a week to raise awareness you ask?
Because the stats speak for themselves…
Currently in Australia, asthma affects 2.5m people, and causes around 400 deaths and 39,500 hospitalisations per year. More than half (52%) of the hospitalisations from Asthma are from children aged 0-14[1].
These are concerning thoughts and what’s even more worrying is that many of us don’t know how to practice Asthma first-aid should there be an incident. Helping to raise awareness of this issue, and potentially save lives, Feras Karem, leading Pharmacist and CEO of Pharmacy 4 Less gives us a four step 101 on what to do in an asthma emergency.
It’s important to note, that if you or someone else is experiencing a severe or life-threatening asthma attack, do not hesitate to call an ambulance first (000) and then commence first-aid.
The Four Steps to Take:
Step 1: Sit the person upright.
It’s essential to sit the person upright. When assisting, remain calm and do not leave them alone.
Step 2: Give 4 separate puffs of blue/grey reliever puffer.
- Ensure you shake the puffer before use
- Put 1 puff into spacer
- Take 4 breaths from spacer
Repeat until 4 puffs have been taken.
Remember: Shake, 1 puff, 4 breaths. [2]
Step 3: Wait 4 minutes.
If there is no improvement, give 4 more separate puffs of blue/grey reliever as shown in step 3.
Step 4: If there is still no improvement call 000 urgently.
- Keep giving 4 separate puffs every 4 minutes until emergency services arrive.
Ultimately, we want all Australians to be aware of what to do when a person is having an asthmatic attack, particularly in children, so that they’re equipped with the knowledge to help. Our pharmacists are also always available in each of our Pharmacy 4 Less stores nationwide to provide further expert advice, product recommendations and general care.
[1] https://www.asthmaaustralia.org.au/nsw/about-asthma/what-is-asthma-/statistics
[2] https://www.asthmaaustralia.org.au/nsw/about-asthma/asthma-emergency