Asthma sufferers must attend an asthma check-up with their GP or asthma nurse at least once every 12 months.
This is to ensure you are getting the optimal treatment and advice, also a chance for you to ask questions about your asthma.
If you suffer from asthma and have NOT had an asthma check-up in the last year please book an appointment with your GP surgery as soon as possible.
Asthma check-ups are important and will usually include breathing tests, inhaler technique, symptoms, triggers, use of spacer devices, and a medicines review.
Check-ups will often also include completing an asthma action plan with your GP or nurse. Patients that use a written action plan are four times less likely to be admitted to hospital.
You should seek urgent medical help if:
- You need to use your salbutamol more than 4 times daily.
- Your inhaler relieves symptoms for less than 4 hours.
- Your breathing is getting worse, despite using treatment.
- You get chest pains or increasing tightness in the chest after using your inhaler.
You are advised to have an early check-up with a nurse or doctor if:
- You need to use your salbutamol inhaler more than 2 or 3 times a week.
- You are having ongoing breathing symptoms such as a cough at night, uncontrolled shortness of breath, or worsening breathing symptoms.
Dr Fox sends letters to GP surgeries each time an inhaler is supplied to confirm asthma checks are up-to-date. People ordering asthma treatment are required to upload a copy of photo ID (passport or driving licence).