How to get better care for your lung condition

With GP practices getting busier, appointments can be hard to find. But those with lung conditions can take charge of their illness to make sure they are getting the right treatment and care. Dr Andy Whittamore, Clinical Lead at Asthma + Lung UK, gives his advice on how you can help manage your lung condition well.

Our recent research revealed that those living in certain regions across the country are more likely to be admitted to hospital or die from a lung condition. While everyone with a lung condition is entitled to a basic level of care, many people with illnesses like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are not getting the treatment and support they need.

Managing your condition well

We know it can be difficult at the moment for people to get a doctor’s appointment, but there are some things you can do to help manage your condition. This will help prevent you having life-threatening asthma attacks or a flare-up of symptoms like breathlessness, wheezing and coughing. There are lots of ways you can manage your condition and make sure you are getting the help you need from your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

Get the most from your doctor or nurse

1. Use your preventer inhaler every day/regularly as prescribed, even if you feel well, as it builds up protection in the airways over time.

2. Carry your reliever inhaler with you at all times in case symptoms come on. See your GP surgery if you are using your reliever inhaler three or more times a week, which may indicate your condition is being poorly controlled.

3. Download an asthma action plan to complete at your appointment. These tell you and others which medicines you take, and what to do if your symptoms are getting worse. We also have a self-management plan for COPD here.

4. Get in touch with your GP surgery if you feel your symptoms such as breathlessness, or wheezing are getting worse and make sure you attend annual reviews. Also, bring your inhalers, spacers and peak flow meters with you to appointments so your technique can be checked. If you’re getting more symptoms than normal and can’t get an appointment at your GP surgery, call 111.

5. Read up before an appointment and prepare questions to bring with you – the more knowledgeable you are about your lung condition the better.

6. Keep a diary of your symptoms and peak flow readings or take any video footage or a sound recording as it can help your GP better understand your condition.

7. Use your pharmacist. They can help you with your medicines and inhaler technique. You don’t need an appointment, and some may even do asthma reviews.

Expert help and advice

There’s lots more information and tips on managing your lung condition on our website. From advice on eating well and keeping active, to seasonal advice and potential triggers, you’ll find lots of advice to help you keep well with your lung condition. We’ve also got advice on inhaler techniques to make sure you’re getting the most from your medicines.

You can also get in touch our friendly Helpline team on 0300 222 5800, or you can WhatsApp us on 07378 if your question is about asthma. Our specialist respiratory nurses and healthcare advisors can help you with all aspects of living with a lung condition. Don’t hesitate to get in touch.