Just seven percent of asthmatics know all the symptoms of an attack, survey finds

Do you?

A study has found that just seven percent of asthmatics know all the symptoms of an asthma attack. According to the Asthma Society of Ireland, 90 percent of the weekly deaths caused by asthma could be prevented. A recent survey of over 1,100 asthmatics revealed that many of those with the condition don’t actually know how to manage it properly or how to prevent an attack. The study also found that 27 percent of asthmatics aren’t aware that constant use of their reliever inhaler could indicate that they are at a higher risk of an asthma attack. And of those surveyed, just one in five know it is safe to have 10 puffs of that reliever inhaler during an attack.

“It is troubling to think that so few asthmatics know all the symptoms of an asthma attack, placing them at huge risk of a serious attack which can be fatal,” CEO of the Asthma Society of Ireland, Sarah O’Connor, said of the survey findings. “Therefore, it is vital that all asthmatics and their carers learn the symptoms of an asthma attack and the 5 Step Rule so that they are fully prepared. It really could be the difference between life and death.”

The society is recommending asthmatics and everyone else be aware of the "5 Step Rule" if they do find themselves or someone else is suffering from an asthma attack. 1. Stay calm. Sit up straight – do not lie down. 2. Take slow steady breaths. 3. Take one puff of your reliever inhaler (usually blue) every minute.

• People over six years can take up to 10 puffs in 10 minutes.
• Children under six can take up to six puffs in 10 minutes.

4. Call 112 or 999 if your symptoms do not improve after 10 minutes. 5. Repeat step three if an ambulance has not arrived in 10 minutes.