Flu jabs and the effect it can have asthmatics.
The flu vaccination is available every year on the NHS to help protect adults and children at risk of flu and it’s complications.
Flu can be unpleasant however tends to clear up after one week. Although it can target anyone there are certain people at increased risk.
1. Anyone aged 65 and over
2. Pregnant women
3. Children and adults with an underlying health condition such as long-term heart or respiratory disease
4. Children and adults with weakened immune system
Huge amounts of Scottish people with the breathing condition ‘Asthma’ say they won’t bother getting the flu jab this year. Leaving them vulnerable to asthma attacks. It’s important for asthma sufferers and other high-risk groups to understand the risks associated without getting the flu jab.
The signs and symptoms to look out for in an asthma attack are:
Wheezing or whistling sound when breathing
Breathlessness
A tight chest
Coughing
These signs and symptoms can be linked to various illnesses however if these signs and symptoms are persistent, they are likely linked to asthma.
You may see these signs and symptoms in correlation with an allergy or they get worse at night or early morning. Allergies and asthma often go hand in hand.
Asthma attacks can be caused by allergens such as smoke, pollen, pollution, the cold or flu, exercise and and fur from cats and dogs.
Should I get the flu jab? If you are in any one of the high-risk categories our advice would be to take the flu jab and minimise the risks.
Our next blog post will be on treating an asthma attack!
