Meet the team
This month meet Laura. She’s a Respiratory Nurse Specialist and has worked on the Asthma + Lung UK helpline for nearly 2 years. She has over 20 years of experience working in primary care at GP practices and alongside respiratory consultants managing difficult and severe asthma. Her knowledge also extends to COPD, bronchiectasis, and sleep apnea. Her respiratory skills and 20 years in nursing helps her to deliver expert, safe, clinical advice with passion and empathy.
On the helpline
Here are some of the top questions we've had this month:
- Why does my health care professional want to make changes to my inhaler regime?
- What does AIR and MART mean when it comes to inhalers?
- My asthma symptoms are worse - what can I do ?
- What can I do to manage summer triggers better?
- How can I stop smoking?
Holiday season is now upon us, and it’s important to be prepared to help keep you safe and well on your travels. Before planning a trip, speak to your health care professional for advice. It is worth arranging a review to make sure your symptoms are being well managed and your treatment is working well. Make sure your self-management or asthma action plan is up to date too.
Most people with a lung condition can travel safely on planes, but consider what you can do to prepare for travelling abroad. We have lots of helpful advice on factors that may have an impact on your travel plans. We have expert resources covering topics such as weather, pollution, high altitude, pollen, hay fever and accommodation. And our dedicated team on the helpline are always available to answer any questions and advice.
Dates for your diary
July 1 is World Bronchiectasis Day. Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung disease which causes wider and inflamed airways and can lead to recurrent infections and difficulty breathing. World Bronchiectasis Day is observed annually to raise awareness and increase understanding, diagnosis and management. It also encourages support for people affected by the condition.
Support group highlight
As 1 July was World Bronchiectasis Day, it seems most fitting to showcase the Asthma + Lung UK bronchiectasis support group. The bronchiectasis online support group is a free online support group to meet and connect with other people with the condition. Our volunteer Patricia founded the online group that meets over zoom every third Thursday of the month at 1.30pm
Thank you for reading this month’s blog. Stay tuned for next month’s edition.