Asthma

If you have been diagnosed with asthma, this summary will help you understand the causes and how physiotherapy can help you to manage the symptoms.

What is asthma?

Asthma is a respiratory problem that can give rise to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing and breathlessness. It can vary considerably in severity. Some people have only minor effects, and only occasionally need simple bronchodilator medicines in a puffer (inhaler), while others need to take medicines, such as steroids, on a daily basis.

What causes asthma?

Asthma is caused when the airways in the lungs become irritated and inflamed and tighten up. This occurs in response to different causes, including allergies, exercise and cold weather. Asthma affects people of any age.

How can physiotherapy help?

Research has shown that breathing gently, calmly and slowly can help reduce some of the symptoms. Physiotherapists are highly skilled at supporting people with asthma by helping them to breathe in a more relaxed way. They can recommend breathing exercises, advise on physical activity, and explain how to manage wheezing and other symptoms, to contribute to your own recovery.

What can I expect when I see a physiotherapist?

The physiotherapist will assess your breathing and how it is affecting your life. They will ask lots of questions, watch and feel how you breathe and see how your chest moves. They may listen to your chest with a stethoscope and test how well you breathe when you are exercising. With your permission, they will link closely with any other healthcare professionals you may have consulted.

Any visit is likely to include:

breathing exercises to do at home
posture and lifestyle advice, and activities to avoid.

It may also include:

tips on using your inhaler, if you have one.

Are there physiotherapists with extra training in this area?

Physiotherapists with a particular interest in asthma are likely to be members of some special interest groups:

Meanwhile, how can I help myself?

Make sure that you take your medicines as prescribed by your doctor.
Keep as active as possible, unless you are feeling very unwell.
Find a relaxation technique that suits you (see Buteyko breathing below), and incorporate it into your daily routine.
Try an activity that combines breathing control with exercise, such as Tai Chi or yoga.

Where can I get more information?

Asthma UK

UK charity that works with people with asthma, health professionals and researchers. Produces a range of information leaflets, asthma diaries and other useful tools, and manages a helpline staffed by asthma nurses. T 08457 010203 W www.asthma.org.uk

Buteyko Breathing Association

Not-for-profit organisation that promotes Buteyko, a breathing technique developed in Russia to improve the health of those with breathing conditions. Contact details of local teachers are available on its website. T 01277 364724 W www.buteykobreathing.org