Wellbeing News
Rhona and Leah
Asthma Awareness
Asthma is a serious and long-term condition that affects 1 in 9 Australians. Sadly, more than 400 Australians die of asthma each year.
There is currently no cure, but in most cases asthma can be well managed and people with asthma can live a full life.
Having Asthma means you have sensitive airways. Your airways can become inflamed or swollen when you are exposed to your triggers.
There are 3 changes that can happen in your airways when triggered:
- Your airway walls become thicker from swelling.
- Your airways fill up with mucus.
- Your airways feel tight from the muscles on the outside of the airways squeezing.
What is Thunderstorm Asthma?
In Victoria, the grass pollen season usually runs from 1 October to 31 December. During this time, you may notice an increase in asthma and hay fever. The season also brings the chance of Thunderstorm Asthma. Thunderstorm Asthma can occur when there is a lot of grass pollen in the air and a specific kind of thunderstorm.
Grass pollen grains get swept up in the wind and carried for long distances. Some can burst open and release tiny particles that are concentrated in the wind gusts that come just before a thunderstorm. These particles are small enough for people to breathe deep into their lungs and can rapidly trigger asthma symptoms, even in those who have never had asthma before.
What Can You Do If You Have Asthma?
Have a written Asthma management plan:
A written Asthma Action Plan can help you manage your Asthma and help you to recognise when your Asthma is getting worse. Your doctor can complete or update your written Asthma Action Plan to ensure your Asthma is controlled.
Please provide any updated plans to the school to provide the best support for all.
More information about Thunderstorm Asthma can be found here: