Experiencing an Asthma Attack
People with severe asthma are at increased risk of asthma attacks. Many will experience multiple attacks over the course of the year, often requiring hospitalisation and oral corticosteroid treatment. These experiences can be frightening and very serious, in some situations result in significant impairment or even death.
While most patients report high quality paramedic and ED staff care, continuity of care can be an issue following acute episodes. This is an important issue, as any disease exacerbation should prompt a full review of an individual’s asthma management plan.
Some hospitals (e.g. Hunter and New England Hospital) provide a ‘fast-track’ service for people with severe asthma, which reduces Emergency Department waiting times and provides targeted and specialist care.
