Alcohol

Alcohol can sometimes trigger asthma so you may find your asthma symptoms get worse when you drink. Some people experience asthma symptoms when they drink any kind of alcohol while others may only have symptoms that are triggered by a particular type of drink such as wine or beer. Research suggests this may be because of the various additives found in alcoholic drinks, rather than the alcohol itself.

Interesting points about triggers

People with asthma sometimes find that their individual triggers can change, so if you notice that an alcoholic drink has only become a trigger recently when it wasnt before, then try to avoid this drink in the future. Having a reaction to alcohol may indicate that your asthma control is not as good as it could be, so it may be worth visiting your doctor or asthma nurse for an asthma review. If you drink alcohol a lot, you can end up feeling depressed which in turn might have a negative impact on your asthma management.

Our top tips!

If you find that a particular drink makes your asthma worse try to avoid it and whatever youre drinking, make sure you keep your reliever inhaler with you at all times. Know your limits check out Drinkawares Unit Calculator to track what youre drinking over time and get more facts about alcohol and your health. drinkaware.co.uk. You can find out more details about alcohol and asthma here asthma.org.uk/adviceline.

Drugs know the score

This is the time in your life when youre most likely to come into contact with drugs so its important to prepare yourself by knowing the facts the more you know the better. Its probably a good idea to think through how you want to respond and behave if someone does offer you a pill or any other type of drug on a night out it might happen when you least expect it.

The facts about drugs and asthma:

All illegal drugs can be harmful and for health reasons it is best to avoid them even more so if you have asthma. The main problem with taking drugs is that its impossible to know what substance they contain. Drugs can make your asthma worse, trigger symptoms and lower your mood (which can have a bad impact on your asthma management). Drugs can aggravate your asthma in ways you may not expect. For example, ecstasy or speed can make you feel more energetic so you may find yourself dancing longer. This increased activity may bring on asthma symptoms. Drugs can lead to problems with your health so its up to you to know the facts and make up your own mind. For more information, help and advice about drugs contact Frank: talktofrank.com Helpline: 0800 77 66 00 Text: 82111 Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year

Asthma UK 2011. Registered charity in England 802364 and in Scotland SCO39322

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Relationships
From friends, family, partner, work colleagues or boss there will always be certain people that you may feel awkward or nervous talking to about your asthma. Its your choice about who you choose to tell about your asthma. Everybody with asthma is different, and everybody deals with asthma differently. For the vast majority of people, asthma shouldnt stop you enjoying everything in life, including relationships. Asthma affects one in five households so the chances are most people you meet will know about asthma, although understanding of asthma will vary from person to person. Asthma is a variable condition so it affects everyone differently and there are still lots of misunderstandings about asthma. Dont let this get you down this is your opportunity to tackle those myths and educate those around you they may thank you for it one day! Why might I want to tell people about my asthma? There are lots of reasons why you might want to tell someone about your asthma. You might want some extra emotional support or it might be more practical stuff like needing someone to go and pick up a prescription for you. If youve recently moved away from home then this will be an opportunity to meet new friends. You may feel safer when youre out and about if youve got people around you who know that you have asthma. Think about why youre telling them and what the key information is that you want them to remember. Its important that they understand that youre no different to anyone else. Its your choice about who you tell and how much you tell them but dont be afraid to confide in others it may bring you closer together. What should I tell people about my asthma? What you tell them is down to you, especially as everyones asthma is different but its important that they know that asthma is manageable. Have a think about the sorts of things people might ask you, here are a few pointers to help get you started: What your asthma symptoms are. Everyone has different symptoms, for

example, not everyone wheezes when they have an asthma attack. What your asthma triggers are. What your asthma medicines are and where you keep them. What they should do when you have an asthma attack you might like to give them an asthma attack card to keep. What it feels like to have asthma not everyone relates to hard facts so you could make it personal to you. Then you may find that people understand a lot better. Will having asthma affect my relationship with my partner? Having asthma shouldnt prevent you from enjoying your life and this includes having fun and fulfilling relationships. There may be certain things that you find awkward or embarrassing when youre in a relationship, like taking your inhaler before sex, but the important thing is to be honest and remember that you are not alone. When I moved away to university and met my first girlfriend, a few months after that I had my first proper experience of sex. Although exercise is one of my asthma triggers I didnt make the association between exercise and sex and found that I was getting very breathless even more than is probably usual! I had to stop to take my inhaler. My girlfriend was very understanding but it was still embarrassing and kind of ruined the moment. After that I made sure it never happened again, and just took my inhaler before we got down to it. Sex - dont let your asthma stop you enjoying yourself Sex is an important part of life and having asthma shouldnt stop you from enjoying sex. Some people may not feel comfortable talking to their doctor about how sex affects their asthma, but it is best to approach sex as you would with any other form of exercise so if youre concerned about your asthma symptoms becoming worse during sex, you can control your symptoms better by taking your reliever inhaler (usually blue) beforehand and making sure you take your preventer inhaler regularly. If you notice that your asthma symptoms are worse during sex, your asthma may not be as well controlled as it could be, and we would recommend a review of your asthma treatments and symptoms with your asthma nurse or doctor. We know that talking about sex may be uncomfortable or embarrassing, but sex is part of your life and your health and doctors will have talked to other people with asthma about their sex life before, so dont let embarrassment stop you getting your asthma sorted and enjoying your sex life.

Keeping your asthma well controlled by taking your medicine, including your preventer inhaler, can help lead to a happier sex life. Its a bit like thinking of sex as another type of trigger, but this is one trigger that we are not advising you to avoid! Contraception Its really important to protect yourself and practice safe sex. People with asthma can often have allergies as well so be aware that most condoms contain latex. Latex allergy If you have an allergy to latex you can find further information on the Allergy UK website allergyuk.org. Allergy UK advise that you do not use rubber gloves, contraceptive diaphragms or rubber condoms but alternatives are available: The female condom is made from polyurethane and is safe to use. Durex, Trojan, Avanti, Pasante all make non latex condoms and should be available in most stores and chemists. Periods and asthma We know that hormonal changes can sometimes affect asthma and some women may find that their asthma gets worse just before their periods. Keep a diary if you feel this is happening to you and discuss this with your doctor, or call our Adviceline for more information. Its also worth bearing in mind that some medicines that you might use for pain relief during your period can trigger asthma symptoms, like aspirin, naproxen and ibuprofen. These medicines should be avoided if you have asthma, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what pain relief is safe for you.

Asthma UK 2011. Registered charity in England 802364 and in Scotland SCO39322

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Smoking
Whether its cigarettes or cannabis, smoking can damage the lungs and make your asthma worse. Its not our place to lecture you about giving up smoking so here are the facts about smoking and asthma (and you can make up your own mind!): Smoking is dangerous. Its the greatest cause of ill health and premature death in the UK. Smoking irritates your airways and causes them to narrow, which makes your asthma symptoms (coughing, wheezing, tight chest and shortness of breath) worse. Smoking increases the risk of asthma attacks. Smokers who have asthma are more likely to require higher doses of preventer medicine to control their symptoms. Smoking can cause permanent damage to your lungs and airways. Avoid smoking during pregnancy and ask others not to smoke around you as this is best for mum and baby. Women who smoke in pregnancy are more likely to have smaller babies (not good for baby) and babies with breathing problems. Quitting isnt easy, but if you have asthma, stopping smoking may be one of the greatest things you can do to improve your life and health. If youre thinking about giving up or would like to know more about smoking, check out Quit the UK charity that helps smokers to stop: Quit quit.org.uk stopsmoking@quit.org.uk quitline: 0800 00 22 00 Asian quitline: 0800 00 22 88 asthma.org.uk/smoking

Asthma UK 2011. Registered charity in England 802364 and in Scotland SCO39322

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Exercise
Getting out the house and exercising is a great way to clear your head and keeping fit is good for your lungs and for your overall health. Exercise improves lung function and your asthma should not stop you doing some form of exercise as long as you: keep your asthma well controlled by taking your preventer inhaler regularly increase your fitness levels gradually always have your reliever inhaler with you when you exercise do a gentle warm up for ten minutes before exercising fully try not to come into contact with things that trigger your asthma. For example, long-distance or cross-country running may involve some strong triggers because they take place outside in cold air without short breaks, or because you are exposed to increased levels of pollen, particularly in the summer months. Some people with asthma find that exercise triggers their asthma symptoms and this can be a sign that your asthma is poorly controlled. If exercise triggers your asthma, make sure you take your preventer inhaler every day and use your reliever inhaler immediately before you warm up. If you need your reliever inhaler more than twice a week you should see your GP or asthma nurse, as your asthma may not be under control. Ensure that you always warm up and down thoroughly. Its also important to stay hydrated by drinking enough water.

What are the best types of exercise for people with asthma?
Team sports like football or hockey are good as they are played in brief bursts with short breaks in between. Fitness classes involving short periods of aerobic exercise. Swimming is an excellent form of exercise for people with asthma as the warm humid air in the swimming pool is less likely to trigger symptoms of asthma. (However, swimming in cold water or heavily chlorinated pools may trigger your asthma). Yoga and Pilates are good types of exercise for people with asthma as they relax the body and may help with breathing. If pollen triggers your asthma then avoid exercising outdoors when the pollen count is high.

Some sports and activities, such as scuba-diving, climbing, hiking or skiing at high altitudes or in cold weather, can cause problems for some people with asthma. Check out our factfile for more information about this.

Asthma UK 2011. Registered charity in England 802364 and in Scotland SCO39322

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Depression
What is depression? People often use the word depression to describe feeling a bit low or fed up although true depression is a more serious and prolonged feeling. Often, when you feel down someone or something can help pick you back up again but if you feel down for a long time and it starts getting in the way of your everyday life then you may have depression. Depression and asthma Everyone reacts differently to any illness or long-term condition and people can sometimes experience negative emotions relating to their asthma, such as anxiety, fear and embarrassment. If you do feel like this you are not alone - some studies suggest that depression is two to three times more common in people with chronic illnesses or long-term conditions. Depression can also impact your asthma and your quality of life for example, when you feel low your asthma gets worse because depression leaves you feeling tired and unmotivated to look after asthma properly. In turn, having to put up with asthma symptoms can make you more worried and depressed, and you may feel that your doctor or asthma nurse doesnt understand. But your doctor and nurse are there to help you. Top tips for managing depression and asthma When youre feeling depressed its sometimes hard to keep in mind the things you need to do to keep healthy but paying attention to your health and well-being is really important. Look after yourself by following our suggestions below: Try not to smoke If youre a smoker, you may notice that you smoke more when you feel depressed. This wont help either your asthma or depression and can make you feel more anxious and stressed. Eat well and eat regularly A healthy balanced diet can keep your mood on an even keel. Try to avoid too much sugar, caffeine and alcohol which can affect your mood. Try to keep active Exercise actually releases endorphins which are chemicals in the brain that promote a happy mood. Check out our exercising top tips to get you started.

Talk about how you feel Talking about how you feel is really important in tackling depression. Try relaxation techniques Some studies have shown that breathing training and relaxation taught by a physiotherapist can reduce asthma symptoms and improve quality of life. These exercises work by promoting general relaxation and lessening some of the physical tension that builds up from ongoing stress and depression. The most important thing to remember is that depression is not an easy thing, but taking one day at a time and keeping an open mind about the support available to you can eventually lead to a better outlook. You can find out lots more about depression, its impact on your asthma and the things you can do to help by downloading our factfile.

Asthma UK 2011. Registered charity in England 802364 and in Scotland SCO39322

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Talk to someone
Sometimes the last thing you want to do when youre feeling down is talk about it but telling a good friend who you think you can confide in about how you feel can really help. You may not find this easy to do but bottling up your emotions wont help either. Writing down how you feel and what you want to say can sometimes help. Also, some people find it easier to talk to someone other than a friend or a family member. You could talk to your asthma nurse or doctor, or you may prefer to talk to someone in confidence on our Adviceline. Here are some ways to contact Asthma UK to talk to someone who understands. Asthma UK Adviceline You can speak to one of our friendly Asthma Nurse Specialists. You can call them about any concerns you may have about asthma, no matter how big or small. Asthma UK Befriending Scheme If youd like to meet up with other people your age with asthma in your area then you can get involved with Asthma UKs Befriending Scheme. Were looking for volunteers to join existing support groups or set up their own groups. Asthma UK Forums The Asthma UK forums are a great way to speak with other people with asthma. Other organisations Check out the list of useful organisations below that can help you get back on your feet. Need a bit of help finding help? You can talk to your asthma nurse or doctor about your feelings and they may suggest or refer you for additional support or you can also check out these useful organisations who also offer free support and guidance: University Counselling Services student.counselling.co.uk Provides information about support available to UK university students and helps students locate appropriate services.

Anxiety UK anxietyuk.org.uk Provides information and support for those living with anxiety disorders. Also has a downloadable booklet about dealing with exam stress. ChildLine helpline: 0800 1111 childline.org.uk Free confidential 24-hour helpline for children and young people in the UK with webchat facility. Get Connected helpline: 0808 808 4994 help@getconnected.org.uk getconnected.org.uk A free service including a webchat facility for young people advising on how to get the best help. Samaritans helpline: 08457 90 90 90 jo@samaritans.org samaritans.org 24-hour emergency telephone helpline. Youth Access 020 8772 9900 youthaccess.org.uk Information on youth counselling. YoungMinds 020 7336 8445 youngminds.org.uk National charity committed to improving the mental health of all babies, children and young people. Provides information for both parents and young people. Mind Infoline: 0300 123 3393 info@mind.org.uk National charity helping people take control of their mental health by providing information and advice.

Asthma UK 2011. Registered charity in England 802364 and in Scotland SCO39322

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How to survive your first year at university:

Sign up with a university GP as soon as possible. If you were under a consultant at home ask your new GP to give you a referral to a consultant at the hospital local to your university. Check your room doesnt have any mould in it, and if it does report it and get it treated, as mould can be a trigger for people with asthma. If you have had to miss lengthy periods off from sixth form or college due to your asthma, go and see the university Student Welfare and Support office to see what help you are entitled to. Dont forget you may be entitled to financial support such as Disabled Students Allowances. Tell your new flatmates that you have asthma, and about any allergies you have so that they can help you if you have any trouble. Fill in a HC1 form so you can get free prescriptions (unless youre going to University in Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland where its free for everyone!) Dont forget to regularly clean your room and get rid of all those house-dust mites! If youre living in university halls that do room spot checks, and you have a nebuliser, make sure they know its medical equipment (mine got removed because they thought it was a bong!). Dont forget with all the partying to take your medicines!
Written by Alice, aged 20, Asthma UK volunteer and third year Student at Cardiff University

Got any more questions about asthma at university? Visit our website asthma.org.uk/youngadults Find us on facebook facebook.com/bigupyourchest Call one of our fantastic asthma nurse specialists on 0800 121 62 44

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Saving money on the cost of asthma at university

Many people find the cost of living with asthma difficult and its particularly difficult when youre a student and not earning much money. We hope the information and advice below will help. These are recommendations from students with asthma at university, and our Asthma UK nurses.

Disabled Students Allowances

Disabled Students Allowances (DSA) can provide you with extra financial help if you have a disability, an ongoing health condition like asthma, mental health condition or a specific learning difficulty like dyslexia and you want to go to university. You do not need to pay it back and the amount you get does not depend on your income, it depends on the help you need. A lot of people with asthma do not realise that they may be eligible to apply for this and it is well worth looking into. It varies across the UK so: For England visit Directgov website direct.gov.uk For Northern Ireland visit Student Finance Northern Ireland studentfinanceni.co.uk For Scotland visit Student Award Agency for Scotland saas.gov.uk For Wales visit Student Finance Wales studentfinancewales.co.uk

Save money on prescription charges (England only)

If you are at university in England, you will need to pay for your prescriptions. Those at university in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, and registered with a doctor there, do not have to. The cost of an item on prescription is 7.40 (correct April 2011) in England. Here are some things that may help you save some money on them:

Low Income Scheme - HC1 forms

Some students may be able to get help with NHS costs and prescriptions through the NHS Low Income Scheme. This means you may get a large discount on your prescriptions or you may even get them free! For this you will need to

complete NHS HC1 claim form. You can request a form by calling 0845 850 1166 or order online by visiting the NHS Business Services Authority website nhsbsa.nhs.uk

Pre-payment certificates (PPC)

Try taking advantage of the pre-payment certificate which is like a season ticket, saving you money if you need regular prescriptions. A Pre-payment certificate in England is: 29.10 for three months (worthwhile if you need more than three items during this period). 104 for 12 months (worthwhile if you need more than 14 items during this period). Go to our factfile on prescriptions for more information asthma.org.uk/factfiles or visit the PPC section of the NHS Business Service Authority website nhsbsa.nhs.uk Another way to save is to have more than one preventer inhaler at a time. Some GPs will allow this but it will depend entirely on local policies so ask you GP. It can work well for some people as this way you will only pay for one prescription.

Other financial help available:

There are educational grants out there to support students in education. See if any are of relevance to you. Visit the Turn 2 Us website for more information turn2us.org.uk. Speak to your Student Welfare and Support office as they may be able to help you. Also sometimes universities have their own grant or loan schemes in place. Check out the financial assistance section of the Asthma UK website. It lists all financial help available to people with asthma. asthma.org.uk

Asthma UK 2011. Registered charity in England 802364 and in Scotland SCO39322

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My tips around travelling with asthma by Ben McNally

Get travel insurance
One of the first things you should always look into when leaving the country, whether it be for a lads or girls summer holiday, or a gap year abroad, is travel insurance. Although it might seem tedious to search through all the policies and expensive for something you probably (and hopefully) wont use, it is absolutely essential. When I visited Australia I went sailing around the Whitsunday Islands (a must do if you manage to get down to Oz), if I had suffered an asthma attack while on one of the islands and needed emergency treatment the only way to get to a hospital was by plane or helicopter. In an emergency, because its essential theyll do everything to take care of you and make sure you are okay, but once you get home you will definitely get the bill for it, and it can cost thousands and thousands of pounds. Although this might seem like an extreme case, to put it in perspective; just to visit a doctor in the USA can cost over 100, and thats just a 15 minute consult. Spending a fraction of that amount on insurance will cover the costs of any medical treatment that you have whilst abroad, not just one doctors appointment or replacement prescription. You must make sure to let the insurance company know that you have asthma. If you dont do this and something were to happen, the insurance company can rightly claim that it was misinformed and may not pay out if you make a claim. Making sure its for the right amount of time, and that the right type of activities are covered is also of equal importance, and its usually worth paying an extra 10 or so for a medical excess waiver in my opinion. When you are travelling around countries in the EU, make sure you take your EHIC/E111 card with you to allow you access to the same level and cost of treatment as the local people.

Be aware of rules around carrying medicines into different countries

Although most of the places I visited were okay, I was told that in some countries theyre really strict on prescription medicines, and if you dont have the original packaging, prescription and instructions for your pills or inhalers they can be confiscated. In some countries there are laws about having certain amounts of different drugs with you. Consequently, its definitely worth checking online before you go whats okay and whats not, but either way, you should take your prescription or a doctors note with you just in case. These sorts of documents will also be useful if you need to get any more of your medicines while abroad, and should be considered when thinking about any medicine you take, not just asthma related items.

Let people youre travelling with know you have asthma

I was travelling for most of the time with at least one friend from home, but there were often times when we were the only people who spoke English in an entire village, so its well worth letting your travel partner/s know that you have asthma, where your inhaler is, how to use it and what to do in an emergency, because having someone around who knows of your condition is invaluable, especially if neither of you speak the local language.

Be aware of the different climates

When I was in Singapore and Bangkok it was unbelievably humid, and I found my chest getting tighter there, so accounting for the kind of climates that youre likely to visit is really important. Before I went away, I didnt really think about how the weather was going to affect my asthma so its worth having a check on how the conditions in places youre likely to be going may affect you. Also, although I never really planned it, I ended up climbing up mountains and scuba diving in the ocean while I was away. In hindsight obviously the extra exercise combined with the various altitudes and depths of these activities meant that I really couldve actually done with my inhaler being handy for the first time in years, rather than in my backpack at the hostel, so when youre looking into and planning out activities that you think theres even the smallest opportunity you might do, its worth thinking in advance about what you might need (as you tend to get caught up in spur of the moment decisions when youre away!). Overall, travelling with asthma isnt too daunting really; just having a look over the checklist below should set you up for safe travels abroad. I hope you have as much fun as I did on my year out. Ben McNally (3 continents, 5 trips, 7 months away, 2,500 photos, and back home in one piece). Key Questions Checklist: Do you have adequate travel insurance? Is it worth paying the excess waiver for medical care? Does it cover me for the right activities and the correct length of time I will be away? Is it legal to take your medicines into the countries you are visiting? Do you have the appropriate prescriptions, labels and doctors notes to identify them to customs and to get replacements if necessary? Have I got the correct type of inhaler for the activities I am likely to do? Will the climate/geography of where I am visiting affect what and how much medicine I need?

If you are thinking about travelling to areas of high altitude, Asthma UKs asthma nurses have put together the following advice for you to keep in mind. Generally fit healthy people with well controlled asthma should have no problems coping with high altitudes as long as they ascend slowly, recognise and accept their limitations and adjust their medicine if need be. Altitude starts to have an effect at around 1,500-2,000 metres and the body starts to adapt to the change in oxygen levels. As you go higher the air pressure gets lower (the air gets thinner), and this means that in any single breath that you take there will be less oxygen for your body. Oxygen is needed to give you the energy to move but is also vital for all your organs. As your body gets less oxygen it adapts. You breathe faster and deeper. This makes more red blood cells to carry more oxygen in your blood. These changes take time to happen which is why we advise for you to ascend slowly and this will keep you healthy. If you ascend to fast you may be at risk of developing acute mountain sickness. Remember to set yourself realistic goals. When travelling at altitude the most important thing is to have your asthma well controlled before you travel. Here are some tips which you may find useful. Make an appointment with your doctor or asthma nurse well in advance for a review of your asthma and ask for an asthma action plan if you dont have one already. It will contain information on what to do should your asthma worsen, what steps to take and what to do in an emergency. Always carry Asthma UKs Asthma Attack Card with you and have your reliever inhaler with you at all times. Ask your doctor to prescribe a spare inhaler to take with you just in case. Make sure your medicines are labelled with doses and keep these safe along with a doctors letter. Have travel insurance arranged and consider registering with the Foreign Commonwealth Office. Make sure you know how to access an English speaking doctor in the area you intend to visit and seek medical attention at any time if your feel unwell.

Asthma UK 2011. Registered charity in England 802364 and in Scotland SCO39322

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Asthma basics
Asthma is a condition that affects the airways the small tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. When a person with asthma comes into contact with something that irritates their airways (an asthma trigger), the muscles around the walls of the airways tighten so that the airways become narrower and the lining of the airways becomes inflamed and starts to swell. Sometimes, sticky mucus or phlegm builds up, which can further narrow the airways. These reactions cause the airways to become narrower and irritated making it difficult to breath and leading to symptoms of asthma. The usual symptoms of asthma are: coughing wheezing shortness of breath tightness in the chest. Not everyone will get all of these symptoms. Some people experience them from time to time; a few people may experience these symptoms all the time. Although theres no cure for asthma, there are effective medicines for asthma that allow most people to control their asthma so that is doesnt interfere with daily life. As asthma is a lifelong condition its important that you take your asthma medicine as directed. Your doctor or asthma nurse should have explained how to use your inhalers properly, so that every dose you take gives you the most benefit. Find out the right way to use your reliever and preventer inhalers and more about steroids, spacers and nebulisers, and possible side effects.

Controlling your asthma

Too many people with asthma spend time in hospital when they shouldnt have to: 75% of hospital admissions could be avoided. If your asthma is under control, youre more likely to have a better quality of life and be more able to do the things you want to. Three questions can help you to decide whether your symptoms are under control:

In the last month: have you had difficulty sleeping because of your asthma symptoms (including cough)? have you had your usual asthma symptoms during the day (cough, wheeze, chest tightness or breathlessness)? has your asthma interfered with your usual activities eg housework, work, school etc? If youve answered yes to any of the above questions, it may be that your asthma is not as well controlled as it could be. See your doctor or asthma nurse to discuss how you may be able to improve your asthma control or call our Adviceline on 0800 121 62 44. Signs that your asthma is not well controlled may include: waking at night with coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath or a tightness in the chest having to take time off work because of your asthma finding it difficult to breathe, and breathing short shallow breaths needing more and more of your reliever finding that your reliever does not seem to be working having to take your reliever more than every four hours feeling that you cannot keep up with your usual level of activity or exercise

Help for you to take control of your symptoms

You can take control of your asthma by knowing what medicines to take, how much and when to take them. It is also important to avoid things that trigger your asthma and know what to do if your symptoms get worse. All of this information should be recorded on a personal asthma action plan, which your doctor or asthma nurse should complete in discussion with you. Asthma UK produces a free pack called Be in Control which includes an action plan, peak flow diary, medicines card and asthma review card. Top tips for getting your asthma under control

Asthma UK Adviceline
If you would like to speak to an asthma nurse specialist about getting your asthma under control, please contact the Asthma UK Adviceline. You can telephone them on 0800 121 62 44 (9am5pm, MondayFriday). Read more about the Asthma UK Adviceline.

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Sut i oroesi eich blwyddyn gyntaf yn y brifysgol:

Cofrestrwch Meddyg Teulu yn y brifysgol cyn gynted phosibl. Os oeddech yn gweld ymgynghorydd gartref, gofynnwch ich Meddyg Teulu newydd eich atgyfeirio at ymgynghorydd yn yr ysbyty lleol. Gwnewch yn sir nad oes unrhyw lwydni yn eich ystafell. Os oes llwydni, rhowch wybod amdano a gwnewch yn sir ei fod yn cael ei drin gan fod llwydni yn aml yn sbardun i bobl ag asthma. Os oedd yn rhaid i chi gymryd cyfnodau hir i ffwrdd or chweched dosbarth neur coleg oherwydd eich asthma, ewch i siarad swyddfa Cymorth a Lles Myfyrwyr y brifysgol i weld pa help sydd ar gael i chi. Cofiwch y gall fod gennych hawl i gael cymorth ariannol gan y llywodraeth megis Lwfansau Myfyrwyr Anabl. Dywedwch wrth y bobl y byddwch yn rhannu llety nhw fod gennych asthma, ac am unrhyw alergeddau sydd gennych er mwyn iddynt eich helpu os byddwch yn mynd i drafferth. Llenwch ffurflen HC1 fel y gallwch gael presgripsiynau am ddim (oni bai eich bod yn mynd ir Brifysgol yng Nghymru, yn yr Alban neu yng Ngogledd Iwerddon lle y maent am ddim i bawb!) Cofiwch lanhau eich ystafell yn rheolaidd a chael gwared ar unrhyw widdon llwch! Os byddwch yn byw mewn neuadd breswyl lle cynhelir hapwiriadau o ystafelloedd, a bod gennych nebiwlydd, gwnewch yn sir bod y brifysgol yn gwybod mai cyfarpar meddygol ydyw (gwnaethant gymryd fy un i am eu bod yn credu mai bong ydoedd!). Peidiwch ag anghofio cymryd eich meddyginiaethau yng nghanol yr holl barton!
Rhestr gan Alice, 20 oed, syn wirfoddolwr gydag Asthma UK ac yn Fyfyriwr trydedd flwyddyn ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd

Oes gennych ragor o gwestiynau am asthma yn y brifysgol? Ewch in gwefan asthma.org.uk/youngadults Dewch o hyd i ni ar facebook facebook.com/bigupyourchest Ffoniwch un on harbenigwyr nyrsio asthma arbennig ar 0800 121 62 44

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Arbed arian ar gost asthma yn y brifysgol

Maer gost o fyw gydag asthma yn anodd i lawer o bobl ac maen arbennig o anodd pan fyddwch yn fyfyriwr a ddim yn ennill llawer o arian. Gobeithio y bydd y wybodaeth ar cyngor isod yn helpu. Dyma argymhellion gan fyfyrwyr yn y brifysgol sydd ag asthma a nyrsys Asthma UK.

Lwfansau Myfyrwyr Anabl

Gall Lwfansau Myfyrwyr Anabl roi help ariannol ychwanegol i chi os oes gennych anabledd, cyflwr iechyd parhaus fel asthma, cyflwr iechyd meddwl neu anhawster dysgu penodol fel dyslecsia, ac rydych am fynd ir brifysgol. Ni fydd angen i chi ei dalu yn l ac nid ywr swm a roddir i chi yn dibynnu ar eich incwm, maen dibynnu ar yr help sydd ei angen arnoch. Nid yw llawer o bobl ag asthma yn sylweddoli y gallant fod yn gymwys i wneud cais am yr arian hwn ac maen sicr yn werth ymchwilio iddo. Maen amrywio ledled y DU, felly: Yng Nghymru, ewch i wefan Cyllid Myfyrwyr Cymru studentfinancewales.co.uk Yn Lloegr, ewch i wefan Directgov direct.gov.uk Yng Ngogledd Iwerddon, ewch i wefan Student Finance Northern Ireland studentfinanceni.co.uk Yn yr Alban, ewch i wefan Student Award Agency for Scotland saas.gov.uk

Arbed arian ar gostau presgripsiynau (Lloegr yn unig)

Os byddwch yn mynd ir brifysgol yn Lloegr, bydd angen i chi dalu am eich presgripsiynau. Ni fydd angen ir rhai syn mynd ir brifysgol yng Nghymru, yn yr Alban ac yng Ngogledd Iwerddon, ac sydd wediu cofrestru meddyg yno, wneud hynny. Mae eitem ar bresgripsiwn yn costio 7.40 (cywir ym mis Ebrill 2011) yn Lloegr. Dyma rai pethau a all eich helpu i arbed rhywfaint o arian ar gostau presgripsiynau:

Cynllun Incwm Isel - ffurflenni HC1

Efallai y bydd rhai myfyrwyr yn gallu cael help chostaur GIG a phresgripsiynau drwy Gynllun Incwm Isel y GIG. Mae hyn yn golygu y gallech gael gostyngiad mawr ar eich presgripsiynau neu hyd yn oed eu cael am ddim! Bydd angen i chi

gwblhau ffurflen gais HC1 y GIG i wneud hyn. Gallwch ofyn am ffurflen drwy ffonio 0845 850 1166 neu archebu ar-lein drwy fynd i wefan Awdurdod Gwasanaethau Busnes y GIG nhsbsa.nhs.uk

Tystysgrifau rhagdalu
Ceisiwch fanteisio ar dystysgrif rhagdalu syn debyg i docyn tymor gan ei bod yn arbed arian i chi os oes angen presgripsiynau arnoch yn rheolaidd. Mae Tystysgrif rhagdalu yn Lloegr yn costio: 29.10 am dri mis (maen werth ei chael os bydd angen mwy na thair eitem arnoch yn ystod y cyfnod hwn). 104 am 12 mis (maen werth ei chael os bydd angen mwy na 14 eitem arnoch yn ystod y cyfnod hwn). Cymerwch olwg ar ein dogfen ffeithiau ar bresgripsiynau am ragor o wybodaeth (asthma.org.uk/factfiles) neu ewch ir adran ar Dystysgrifau Rhagdalu ar wefan Awdurdod Gwasanaethau Busnes y GIG yn nhsbsa.nhs.uk Mae cael mwy nag un anadlydd ataliol ar y tro yn ffordd arall o arbed arian. Bydd rhai Meddygon Teulu yn caniatu hyn ond bydd yn dibynnun llwyr ar bolisau lleol felly gofynnwch ich Meddyg Teulu. Gall weithion dda i rai pobl gan mai dim ond un presgripsiwn y bydd angen i chi dalu amdano. Mathau eraill o help ariannol sydd ar gael: Mae grantiau addysgol ar gael i helpu myfyrwyr mewn addysg. Edrychwch i weld a oes rhai syn berthnasol i chi. Ewch i wefan Turn 2 Us am ragor o wybodaeth turn2us.org.uk Siaradwch ch swyddfa Cymorth a Lles Myfyrwyr oherwydd efallai y gallant eich helpu. Hefyd, weithiau bydd gan brifysgolion eu cynlluniau grantiau neu fenthyciadau eu hunain ar waith. Edrychwch ar adran cymorth ariannol gwefan Asthma UK. Maen rhestru pob math o help ariannol sydd ar gael i bobl ag asthma. asthma.org.uk

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Fy awgrymiadau ar gyfer teithio ag asthma Trefnwch yswiriant teithio

Un or pethau cyntaf y dylech ei ystyried pan fyddwch yn gadael y wlad, boed yn wyliau haf gydar bois neur merched, neun flwyddyn allan dramor, yw yswiriant teithio. Er y gall ymddangos yn ddiflas chwilio drwyr holl bolisau ac yn ddrud am rywbeth na fyddwch chi (gobeithio) yn ei ddefnyddio, maen gwbl hanfodol. Pan ymwelais i ag Awstralia, es i hwylio o amgylch Ynysoedd Whitsunday (rhywbeth syn rhaid i chi ei wneud os byddwch yn cael cyfle i ymweld ag Awstralia), pe bawn i wedi dioddef pwl o asthma tra roeddwn ar un or ynysoedd a bod angen triniaeth frys arna i, dim ond drwy gael awyren neu hofrennydd y byddwn wedi gallu cyrraedd yr ysbyty. Mewn argyfwng, am ei bod yn hanfodol, byddant yn gwneud popeth y gallant i ofalu amdanoch a gwneud yn siwr eich bod yn iawn, ond unwaith i chi gyrraedd adref byddwch yn sicr o gael bil amdano, a gall gostio miloedd ar filoedd o bunnoedd. Mae hon yn enghraifft eithriadol, ond cofiwch y gall gostio dros 100 i ymweld meddyg yn UDA, dim ond am ymgynghoriad chwarter awr. Os byddwch yn gwario ffracsiwn or swm hwnnw ar yswiriant, bydd costau unrhyw driniaeth feddygol rydych yn ei chael pan fyddwch dramor yn cael eu talu, nid dim ond apwyntiad meddyg neu bresgripsiwn newydd. Cofiwch roi gwybod ir cwmni yswiriant bod gennych asthma. Os na fyddwch yn gwneud hynny a bod rhywbeth yn mynd o chwith, gall y cwmni yswirio hawlion gyfiawn na roddwyd y wybodaeth gywir iddo ac efallai na fydd yn talu os byddwch yn gwneud hawliad. Maer un mor bwysig gwneud yn siwr ei fod yn cwmpasur cyfnod cywir, ar math cywir o weithgareddau, ac mae fel arfer yn werth talu tua 10 yn ychwanegol i hepgor y tl-dros-ben am ofal meddygol yn fy marn i. Pan fyddwch yn teithio o gwmpas gwledydd yn yr UE, gwnewch yn siwr eich bod yn mynd cherdyn EHIC/ E111 gyda chi syn eich galluogi i gael gafael ar yr un lefel o driniaeth, am yr un pris, phobl leol. Byddwch yn ymwybodol or rheolau o ran mynd meddyginiaeth i mewn i wledydd eraill. Er bod y rhan fwyaf or lleoedd yr ymwelais i nhw yn iawn, cefais wybod eu bod yn llym iawn mewn rhai gwledydd o ran meddyginiaethau presgripsiwn, ac os nad ywr pecyn gwreiddiol, y presgripsiwn ar cyfarwyddiadau gennych chi, gall yr awdurdodau eu cymryd oddi wrthych. Mewn rhai gwledydd, ceir rheolau ynglyn chael symiau penodol o gyffuriau gwahanol gyda chi. O ganlyniad, maen sicr yn werth edrych ar-lein cyn i chi fynd i weld beth syn iawn a beth syn annerbyniol, ond dylech fynd ch presgripsiwn neu nodyn gan y meddyg gyda chi rhag ofn beth bynnag. Bydd dogfennau or fath yn ddefnyddiol os bydd angen i chi gael rhagor

och meddyginiaethau pan fyddwch dramor, a dylech ystyried gwneud hynny ar gyfer unrhyw feddyginiaethau rydych yn eu cymryd, nid dim ond pethau syn gysylltiedig ag asthma. Rhowch wybod i bobl rydych yn teithio gyda nhw bod gennych asthma Roeddwn yn teithio gydag o leiaf un ffrind o gartref am y rhan fwyaf or amser, ond yn aml, ni fyddair unig bobl a oedd yn siarad Saesneg yn y pentref, felly maen sicr yn werth rhoi gwybod ich partner/iaid teithio bod gennych asthma, ble y mae eich anadlydd, sut iw ddefnyddio a beth iw wneud mewn argyfwng, oherwydd maen amhrisiadwy cael rhywun wrth law syn gwybod am eich cyflwr, yn enwedig os na fydd yr un or ddau ohonoch yn siarad yr iaith leol. Byddwch yn ymwybodol or hinsawdd wahanol Pan roeddwn yn Singapr a Bangkok roedd yn arbennig o glos, a gallwn deimlo fy mrest yn tynhau yno, felly maen bwysig iawn ystyried y mathau o hinsoddau rydych yn debyg o ymweld nhw. Cyn mynd i ffwrdd, ni feddyliais am sut y byddair tywydd yn effeithio ar fy asthma, felly maen werth edrych i weld sut y gall yr hinsawdd yn y mannau rydych yn debygol o ymweld nhw effeithio arnoch. Hefyd, er nad oeddwn i wedi bwriadu gwneud hynny, es i ddringo mynyddoedd a phlymio sgwba yn y mr tra roeddwn i ffwrdd. O edrych yn l, roedd yr ymarfer corff ychwanegol ar amrywiaeth o uchderau a dyfnderoedd a oedd ynghlwm wrth y gweithgareddau hyn yn amlwg yn golygu y byddai wedi bod yn ddefnyddiol, am y tro cyntaf ers blynyddoedd, cael fy anadlydd wrth law yn hytrach nai fod yn fy mag yn yr hostel, felly pan fyddwch yn meddwl am weithgareddau posibl, hyd yn oed os bydd fawr ddim siawns y byddwch yn eu gwneud yn y pen draw, maen werth ystyried ymlaen llaw beth y bydd ei angen arnoch (oherwydd y byddwch yn tueddu i wneud penderfyniadau yng ngwres y foment pan fyddwch chi i ffwrdd!). Yn gyffredinol, nid yw teithio ag asthma mor anodd hynny mewn gwirionedd; dylair rhestr isod eich helpu i baratoi i deithio dramor yn ddiogel. Gobeithio y cewch chi gymaint o hwyl ag y cefais inne ar fy mlwyddyn allan. Ben McNally (tri chyfandir, pum taith, saith mis i ffwrdd, 2,500 o luniau, ac yn l adref mewn un darn) Rhestr Wirio Cwestiynau Allweddol: A ydych chi wedi trefnu yswiriant teithio digonol? A ywn werth talu i hepgor y tl-dros-ben am ofal meddygol? A ywr yswiriant yn cwmpasur gweithgareddau cywir ar cyfnod cywir o amser y byddaf i ffwrdd? A ywn gyfreithlon cymryd eich meddyginiaethau yn y gwledydd y byddwch yn ymweld nhw? A oes gennych chir presgripsiynau, y labeli ar nodiadau meddyg priodol i ddangos beth ydynt pan fyddwch yn mynd drwy dollau a chael rhai newydd os bydd angen?

A oes gen ir math cywir o anadlydd ar gyfer y gweithgareddau rwyn debygol ou gwneud? A fydd hinsawdd/tirwedd y lle rwyn ymweld ag ef yn effeithio ar ba feddyginiaeth, a faint ohono, sydd ei angen arnaf? Os ydych yn ystyried teithio i fannau uchel, mae nyrsys asthma Asthma UK wedi llunior cyngor canlynol iw gadw mewn cof. Ni ddylai uchder fod yn broblem i bobl heini ac iach y mae eu hasthman cael ei reolin dda, cyhyd u bod yn cymryd eu hamser wrth fynd i fyny, yn cydnabod ac yn derbyn eu cyfyngiadau ac yn addasu eu meddyginiaeth lle y bo angen. Mae uchder yn dechrau effeithio ar bobl ar tua 1,500 2,000 metr o uchder, a bydd eu cyrff yn dechrau addasu ir newid mewn lefelau ocsigen. Wrth i chi fynd yn uwch, bydd y gwasgedd aer yn gostwng (bydd yr aer yn mynd yn deneuach), felly byddwch yn cymryd llai o ocsigen i mewn ich corff gyda phob anadl unigol. Mae angen ocsigen arnoch i roi egni i chi i symud ond mae hefyd yn hanfodol ich organau. Wrth ich corff gael llai o ocsigen, bydd yn ymaddasu. Byddwch yn anadlu yn gyflymach ac yn ddyfnach. Bydd hynnyn creu mwy o gelloedd coch yn eich gwaed er mwyn cludo mwy o ocsigen yn eich gwaed. Maer newidiadau hyn yn cymryd amser, sef y rheswm dros argymell eich bod yn cymryd eich amser i ddringo i fyny a bydd hynnyn eich cadw chin iach. Os byddwch yn dringo i fyny yn rhy gyflym efallai y bydd gennych risg o ddatblygu salwch uchder acwt. Cofiwch bennu nodau realistig i chi eich hun. Wrth deithio mewn mannau uchel, y peth pwysicaf yw gwneud yn siwr eich bod yn rheoli eich asthma yn dda cyn i chi deithio. Dyma rai awgrymiadau a allai fod yn ddefnyddiol. Gwnewch apwyntiad gydach meddyg neuch nyrs asthma ymhell ymlaen llaw er mwyn adolygu eich asthma a gofyn am gynllun gweithredu asthma os nad oes eisoes gennych chi un. Bydd yn cynnwys gwybodaeth am beth y dylech ei wneud os bydd eich asthma yn gwaethygu, pa gamau iw cymryd a beth iw wneud mewn argyfwng. Cariwch gerdyn Beth iw Wneud Mewl Pwl o Asthma Asthma UK gyda chi bob amser a chadwch eich anadlydd lliniaru wrth law bob amser. Gofynnwch ich meddyg ragnodi anadlydd sbr y gallwch fynd ag ef gyda chi rhag ofn. Gwnewch yn siwr bod eich meddyginiaethau wediu labelu r dogn a chadwch nhwn ddiogel ynghyd llythyr y meddyg. Trefnwch yswiriant teithio ac ystyriwch gofrestru r Swyddfa Dramor a Chymanwlad. Gwnewch yn siwr eich bod yn gwybod sut i gael gafael ar feddyg syn siarad Saesneg yn yr ardal rydych yn bwriadu ymweld hi a mynnwch gyngor meddygol unrhyw bryd y byddwch yn teimlon sl.

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Ffeithiau asthma
Cyflwr syn effeithio ar y llwybrau anadlu y tiwbiau bach syn cludo aer i mewn ac allan or ysgyfaint yw asthma. Pan ddaw rhywun ag asthma i gysylltiad rhywbeth syn effeithio ar ei lwybrau anadlu (sbardun asthma), maer cyhyrau o amgylch waliaur llwybrau anadlu yn tynhau syn achosi ir llwybrau anadlu gulhau ac mae leinin y llwybrau anadlun llidio ac yn dechrau chwyddo. Weithiau bydd mwcws gludiog neu fflem yn cronni, a all wneud y llwybrau anadlu hyd yn oed yn fwy cul. Maer adweithiau hyn yn achosi ir llwybrau anadlu gulhau a llidio syn ei gwneud yn anodd anadlu ac syn arwain at symptomau asthma. Symptomau arferol asthma yw peswch gwichian diffyg anadl tyndra yn y frest. Ni fydd pawb yn cael pob un or symptomau hyn. Mae rhai pobl yn eu cael o bryd iw gilydd; gall rhai pobl gael y symptomau hyn drwyr amser. Er nad oes modd cael gwared ar asthma, mae meddyginiaethau effeithiol ar gael i drin asthma syn galluogir rhan fwyaf o bobl iw reoli fel nad ywn amharu ar eu bywyd bob dydd. Gan mai cyflwr gydol oes yw asthma, maen bwysig eich bod yn cymryd eich meddyginiaeth asthma yn l y gofyn. Dylai eich meddyg neuch nyrs asthma esbonio sut i ddefnyddio eich anadlwyr yn briodol, fel eich bod yn cael y budd mwyaf o bob dos. Dysgwch am y ffordd gywir o ddefnyddio eich anadlwyr lliniaru ac ataliol a dysgwch fwy am steroidau, gwahanwyr a nebiwleiddwyr, ynghyd sgl-effeithiau posibl. Rheoli eich asthma Mae gormod o bobl ag asthma yn treulio amser yn yr ysbyty yn ddiangen: gellid osgoi 75% or derbyniadau ir ysbyty. Os yw eich asthma o dan reolaeth, rydych yn fwy tebygol o gael ansawdd bywyd gwell a gallu gwneud mwy or pethau rydych am eu gwneud. Gall tri chwestiwn eich helpu i benderfynu a yw eich symptomau o dan reolaeth:

Yn ystod y mis diwethaf: A ydych wedi cael trafferth cysgu oherwydd eich symptomau asthma (gan gynnwys peswch)? A ydych wedi bod yn cael eich symptomau asthma arferol yn ystod y dydd (peswch, gwichian, tyndra yn y frest neu ddiffyg anadl)? A yw eich asthma wedi amharu ar eich gweithgareddau arferol - ee gwaith ty, gwaith, ysgol ac ati? Os ydych wedi ateb ydw neu ydy i unrhyw un or cwestiynau uchod, maen bosibl bod modd rheoli eich asthman well. Ewch at eich meddyg neuch nyrs asthma i drafod sut y gallech wellach ffordd o reolich asthma neu ffoniwch ein Llinell Gyngor ar 0800 121 62 44. Rhai arwyddion nad ydych yn rheoli eich asthman dda Deffro yn y nos gyda pheswch, gwichian, diffyg anadl neu dyndra yn y frest Rhaid i chi gymryd amser i ffwrdd or gwaith oherwydd eich asthma Rydych yn cael trafferth anadlu, ac mae eich anadliadau yn rhai isel a byr Mae angen i chi ddefnyddio eich anadlydd lliniarun amlach Nid yw eich anadlydd lliniaru yn gweithio cystal Rhaid i chi ddefnyddio eich anadlydd lliniaru mwy na phob pedair awr Rydych yn teimlo fel na allwch barhau ch lefel arferol o weithgarwch neu ymarfer. Help er mwyn i chi reoli eich symptomau Gallwch reoli eich asthma drwy wybod pa feddyginiaethau iw cymryd, faint ohonynt a phryd iw cymryd. Mae hefyd yn bwysig osgoi pethau syn sbarduno eich asthma a gwybod beth iw wneud os bydd eich symptomaun gwaethygu. Dylair holl wybodaeth hon gael ei chofnodi ar gynllun gweithredu asthma personol, a dylaich meddyg neuch nyrs asthma ei gwblhau mewn trafodaeth chi. Mae Asthma UK yn cynhyrchu pecyn am ddim or enw Be in Control syn cynnwys cynllun gweithredu, dyddiadur priglif, cerdyn meddyginiaeth a cherdyn adolygu asthma. Awgrymiadau i reoli eich asthma. Llinell Gyngor Asthma UK Os hoffech siarad nyrs asthma arbenigol am reoli eich asthma, cysylltwch Llinell Gyngor Asthma UK. Gallwch ei ffonio ar 0800 121 62 44 (rhwng 9am a 5pm o ddydd Llun i ddydd Gwener). Darllenwch fwy am Linell Gyngor Asthma UK.

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