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Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions in IrelandCredit: Getty<\/p>\n
Marking World Asthma Day this week, the HSE<\/a> said: \u201cAsthma is a common lung condition that affects the ability to breathe.\u00a0<\/p>\n \u201cThis might mean difficulties breathing from time to time, or breathing problems most of the time.\u201d<\/p>\n The health<\/a> body explained that asthma can be serious, especially if it is not well controlled.\u00a0<\/p>\n People with asthma are at risk of having a severe asthma attack.<\/p>\n Ireland has one of the highest asthma rates in the world, affecting one in 10 people, according to the Asthma Society of Ireland.<\/p>\n Some 450,000 people in Ireland have asthma but many remain unsure where to turn for guidance.<\/p>\n Symptoms include wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing and experiencing a tight chest feeling. <\/p>\n HSE ADVICE<\/p>\n THE cause is more likely to be asthma if the symptoms:<\/p>\n See a GP if you think you or your child may have asthma.<\/p>\n We are still learning about the causes of asthma. But you may be at more risk of asthma if you:<\/p>\n CEO of the Asthma Society, Eilis Ni Chaithnia, warned that asthma can be \u201cunpredictable\u201d and \u201cfrightening\u201d at times.<\/p>\n How to spot asthma in your child and signs of an asthma attack <\/p>\n She said: \u201cFor too long, there has been a misconception that asthma and physical activity don\u2019t mix.\u00a0<\/p>\n \u201cAnd if you’ve ever been left gasping for breath \u2014 or even hospitalised \u2014 from exercise, it’s only natural to fear doing it again.<\/p>\n \u201cBut the evidence is clear: regular movement, done safely, strengthens your lungs, reduces inflammation, and can alleviate the mental toll of having a chronic disease.\u201d<\/p>\n The group have just launched a free service on their Adviceline connecting people with a Senior Physiotherapist.<\/p>\n Olympian and asthma ambassador Derval O\u2019Rourke, who has lived with asthma throughout her career, admitted she has second-guessed herself before training.<\/p>\n She said: \u201cBut I also know that staying active has helped me manage my asthma, not worsen it.\u00a0<\/p>\n \u201cThis campaign is about empowering people \u2014 whether you\u2019re walking around the block or aiming for a marathon, the support is there.\u201d<\/p>\n Respiratory Consultant at Tallaght University Hospital and Trinity College, Professor Patrick Mitchell said that asthma is \u201cone of the most common chronic conditions in Ireland, yet it\u2019s often misunderstood\u201d.<\/p>\n He explained: \u201cPeople with asthma should be able to participate fully in exercise \u2014 even competitive sport \u2014 with proper management.\u00a0<\/p>\n \u201cIf symptoms appear during or after exercise, it may be a sign that the asthma is not well controlled, not that activity should be avoided.<\/p>\n \u201cWe know that regular activity, done safely, can actually reduce symptoms and improve lung function. <\/p>\n “That\u2019s why the right education, support and treatment are so important.\u201d<\/p>\n\n
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