If you have asthma, you are among those considered to be at a higher risk during the COVID-19 pandemic.
It is important to note that being in the ‘high-risk’ category does not mean you are more likely to catch the virus; instead, it means that you are at higher risk of serious illness if you do contract it.
It is therefore vital for asthmatics to take the necessary precautions to keep themselves safe during this time.
A respiratory infection, such as COVID-19, can cause a flare in the symptoms of asthma. Therefore people should take the following steps to remain asymptomatic:
As with all illnesses and viruses, prevention is critical. Here are measures you can take to lower your risk of contracting COVID-19:
If you feel like your asthma is deteriorating, or you develop a ‘new’ cough or ‘new’ fever, call your GP as soon as possible. Remind your GP that you are asthmatic and describe how your asthma symptoms have changed. Tell your GP how often you are using your inhaler if it is working to relieve your symptoms.
Please do not fear contracting COVID-19 by attending your GP or A&E if required in an emergency. Those with medical problems must seek the necessary care. GP surgeries and hospital employ strict infection control measures as essential medical care providers.
Overall, the COVID-19 outbreak does not require any change to a good asthma management routine. However, it is recommended that asthmatics are aware of the necessary measures to avoid infection.
By Rachael Cleary
Chartered Physiotherapist
References:
‘Health Advice for People with Asthma’ Asthma UK 2020: https://www.asthma.org.uk/advice/triggers/coronavirus-covid-19/
‘Coronavirus Advice’ Asthma Society of Ireland, 2020: https://www.asthma.ie/news/coronavirus-covid-19-advice
Image by Debbie Courson Smith from Pixabay
Rachael completed her Physiotherapy degree at Trinity College Dublin. During her years of study, she gained experience working with respiratory, neurological and musculoskeletal conditions both in Ireland and abroad.
Rachael spent time working in a top private outpatient department in Malta working with elite-level athletes and developing her ‘hands-on’ manual therapy techniques which she finds extremely effective in clinical practice.
Upon graduation, Rachael began working as a staff grade physiotherapist in orthopaedic rehabilitation, treating and managing many post-surgical patients. Rachael has worked pitch-side with a local football club gaining extensive experience in various sports conditions and injuries.
Rachael qualified as a Pilates instructor in June 2019 and enjoys using these exercise-based techniques with her patients both in classes and in one-on-one rehabilitation.
Her clinical areas of interest include women’s health conditions, tendinopathies and post-surgical rehabilitation.