If you have asthma, it would be best to have your asthma action plan prepared. Maybe it’s tucked in a drawer, or stuck to the fridge from a few years ago. We understand, and you’re not alone.
However, a plan that is out of date may not match your medicines or symptoms today.
This guide explains what an asthma action plan is, when to review yours, and how your Bomaderry GP can help.
What Is An Asthma Action Plan?
An asthma action plan is a written set of instructions for your asthma. Asthma Australia says that your doctor should write it with you in mind, which includes guidance and support. It has four parts:
- How to look after your asthma every day
- What to do if your asthma starts to flare up
- What to do if a flare-up becomes severe
- What to do in an asthma emergency
Your plan is one part of a wider asthma management plan. That bigger plan also covers your medicines, your asthma triggers and regular check-ups. Keep your asthma plan somewhere easy to find, like the fridge or near your puffers. A photo on your phone is handy too.
You can download an asthma action plan PDF from Asthma Australia. A blank template is a good start. But it only works once your GP fills it in with you, using your own symptoms and medicines.
When Should You Review Your Asthma Action Plan?
If you already have an asthma action plan that has been sitting for a while now, it’s best to have an updated one given by your GP. Asthma can change over time, so your plan should change too. Book a review:
- At least once a year. Adults should have their plan checked every year.
- After a flare-up or hospital visit. Asthma Australia advises seeing your doctor soon after an asthma attack or flare-up.
- When your medicines change. Your written plan should always match what you actually take.
- When you move or change GP. Bring your current plan so your new doctor can understand your asthma quickly.
Triggers can shift too. Exercise, smoke, pollen and poor air quality are common asthma triggers. Seasons may also play a part, especially during this springtime.
You may also get flu shots and seasonal vaccines accordingly.
What Happens At An Asthma Review?
An asthma review with your GP is a check-up to see how well your asthma is controlled. The National Asthma Council says it is also the time to review your medicines and update your plan.
Your asthma doctor, usually your regular GP, may ask:
- How many days a week you have asthma symptoms
- How often you use your reliever medicine
- Whether asthma wakes you at night or troubles you in the morning
- Whether you have any side effects from your medicines
Following your plan and having regular reviews can help you miss fewer days of work or school. It may also mean fewer hospital visits. Asthma is one of several long-term conditions your GP can support over time. Our guide on how GPs support long-term care for chronic disease explains more.
Asthma Action Plans For Children
Children’s plans are checked more often than adult plans. Asthma Australia says a child’s plan should be reviewed every six months. Review it sooner if their symptoms or medicines change.
Make sure the triggers section is filled in. Then give a copy to your child’s school or childcare centre. Each time the plan changes, share the new version.
Our GPs also see children for everyday health needs. If you need help with child healthcare in Bomaderry, NSW, our GPs are here to help.
When To See A GP, And When To Call 000
Book a GP appointment if you notice any of these:
- Asthma symptoms at night or first thing in the morning
- Needing your reliever more often than usual
- Missing work, school or activities because of asthma
- An asthma flare-up that isn’t settling
- No written plan, or a plan that is out of date
Some situations can’t wait for an appointment. If breathing is severe, or your reliever isn’t helping, call 000 and ask for an ambulance. Start asthma first aid while you wait. It is better to act early than to wait for asthma to become severe.
You can also speak with an Asthma Australia educator on 1800 ASTHMA (1800 278 462).
Stay On Track With Your Asthma Action Plan
An asthma action plan only helps when it is up to date. Review yours at least once a year, after a flare-up, when your medicines change, and every six months for children.
At Bomaderry Creek Health Centre, our GPs can work with you to write or update your asthma action plan. This is part of our chronic disease management service. Our team also includes an on-site clinical pharmacist, and GP consultations are bulk billed for Medicare-eligible patients.
We welcome families from Bomaderry, Nowra and across the Shoalhaven.
Talk to your GP to see what is right for you. You can book an appointment online or call (02) 4413 2325.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an asthma action plan if my asthma is mild?
Yes. Asthma Australia says everyone with asthma should have one, no matter how mild their asthma feels. A written plan helps you and your family know what to do if symptoms flare up.
Your GP can tailor it to your own triggers, symptoms and medicines, so it fits your life.
Where can I find an asthma action plan PDF?
Asthma Australia and the National Asthma Council both offer free asthma action plan templates to download and print. A template is only a starting point.
Ask your GP to complete it with you, so it matches your medicines, triggers and symptoms.
How often should a child’s asthma action plan be reviewed?
Asthma Australia says a child’s plan should be checked every six months. Review it sooner if their symptoms or medicines change. After each update, give the latest copy to their school, kindergarten or childcare centre.
Ask your GP to go through the plan with you. Then everyone who cares for your child knows what to do.
What should I bring to an asthma review?
Bring your current asthma action plan, your reliever and preventer medicines, and any spacer you use. It can also help to note your symptoms and triggers beforehand.
Write down any questions you have for your GP. Bring your Medicare card and a list of any other medicines you take as well.
What is the difference between an asthma action plan and a chronic condition management plan?
An asthma action plan covers your daily asthma care and what to do when symptoms change. A chronic condition management plan is a broader care plan for long-term conditions.
Your GP can explain how each plan works and tell you whether a chronic condition management plan may suit you.