MQ Health Respiratory and Sleep Clinic
- Suite 203, Level 2
- 2 Technology Place
- Macquarie University NSW 2109
- T: + 61 (2) 9812 3709
- E: reception@mqrs.com.au
Respiratory specialist services
World-class, multidisciplinary care and services
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Integrated health care produces better outcomes for patients
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Asthma affects one in nine Australians
Asthma is a common long-term condition of the airways. As symptoms of asthma are non-specific, the condition is both under- and over-diagnosed, leading to sub-optimal management and poor control.
Symptoms
Symptoms for asthma vary from person to person. They can include:
- episodic wheeze
- shortness of breath
- chest tightness
- cough usually triggered by a specific exposure or evident during exercise.
When to see a doctor
If you have any of the above symptoms, you should see your general practitioner (GP) for review.
Causes
Causes of asthma are unknown and researchers continue to investigate genetic and environmental factors.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will make a diagnosis based on your medical history and examination, including a breathing test using a piece of equipment called a spirometer. Other tests include:
- peak flow monitoring (PFM)
- imaging tests
- allergy testing
- blood tests.
Treatment
Your doctor will determine the best treatment for you based on age, overall health, symptoms etc. Treatment often includes inhaled medication (puffers) and needs to be closely monitored. In severe cases oral medication or injections may be used.
Risk factors
While there is no cure for asthma, you and your doctor can create a plan to manage it.
Prevention
- Using preventative medication regularly in a well-balanced plan often leads to a good level of control.
- Action plans are recommended for management of flare-ups.
- Lifestyle modifications, such as weight loss and environmental changes, may be necessary or helpful.
Current research
MQ Health is currently involved in research on the management and bronchoscopic treatment of severe asthma.
