Asthma

Asthma is a common lung condition in which the airways narrow and swell, encouraging the production of extra mucus which can make breathing slightly difficult.

The lungs and airways of a person affected by asthma can become easily inflamed and irritated when exposed to particular triggers, such as inhaling pollen, catching a cold or any other respiratory viruses.

It is a common condition and can affect people of all ages, but usually develops in early childhood. It can however develop for the first time in adults.

There’s currently no cure, but there are simple treatments that can help keep the symptoms under control so it does not have a big impact on your life

Symptoms of asthma

The main symptoms of asthma are:

• a whistling sound when breathing (wheezing)
• breathlessness
• a tight chest, which may feel like a band is tightening around it
• coughing

The symptoms can sometimes get temporarily worse. This is known as an asthma attack.

Treatments for asthma

Asthma is usually treated by using an inhaler, a small device that lets you breathe in medicines.

The main types are:

• reliever inhalers – used when needed to quickly relieve asthma symptoms for a short time
• preventer inhalers – used every day to prevent asthma symptoms happening

Some people also need to take tablets.

Treatments options

While there is currently no known cure for asthma, the right treatment plan can allow symptoms to be controlled and prevent damage to your lungs.

Inhalers, which are devices that allow you to inhale medication, are the most common form of treatment for asthma. However, treatment options are fully dependent on the severity of the condition and this is reviewed on a case by case basis.

A personal action plan will usually be created with by your doctor or asthma specialist – this will include information about your selected method of treatment, how to monitor the condition and what to do if an asthma attack occurs.

If an inhaler alone is not sufficient in controlling your symptoms, other treatment options include:

• Certain oral medications
• Injections
• Complementary therapies
• Surgical intervention

It is important to seek medical advice if your are showing any of the signs or symptoms listed, as a diagnosis will enable you to receive appropriate support and treatment.

You can use your private medical insurance or pay for your Asthma treatment. We offer competitive, fixed price packages as well as the ability to spread the cost of your treatment over a number of months. If you are using your health insurance, please contact your insurer first for approval and let them know you’d like to be treated at either the One Ashford Hospital or One Hatfield Hospital.

Why One Healthcare

• Modern purpose-built hospital opened in March 2016 (Ashford) December 2017 (Hatfield)
• Fast access to diagnostics including MRI, X-ray and Ultrasound
• Private, spacious, en-suite rooms
• Specialist Physiotherapy and nursing teams
• Little or no waiting time
• ‘Ultra clean air’ theatres
• Freshly prepared food
• Calm, dignified experience

Contact us and find out more

If you live in and around the Kent area and would like to visit our One Ashford Hospital please click here

If you are based in and around Hertfordshire and would like to visit the One Hatfield Hospital please click here.