Asthma Awareness

During the spring and summer months, airborne dusts can trigger an allergic reaction that ranges from symptoms of hay fever to asthma attacks amongst people who have a diagnosis for this illness.

Asthma is also associated with times in our lives that are particularly stressful. So combining the influences of weather with examinations leads to an increased risk of asthma attacks or milder breathing difficulties. It is worth considering practical steps to avoid exposure to respiratory irritants and be able to deal with any symptoms before these get out of control.

By avoiding the triggers that make your asthma symptoms worse, and by taking your asthma medication correctly, you can reduce your symptoms and continue to enjoy your usual lifestyle. If your doctor has prescribed you with inhalers please make sure they are in date and you have sufficient supplies with you at all times.

In the event of an Asthma attack please follow these simple steps:

  1. Take one to two puffs of your reliever inhaler (usually blue)
  2. Sit up and try to take slow steady breaths. Keep calm
  3. If you do not start to feel better continue to take two puffs of your reliever inhaler every two minutes, take up to ten puffs
  4. If you do not feel better after taking your inhaler as above or you are worried at any time - call 999
  5. If an ambulance does not arrive within 15 minutes repeat bullet point 3 while you wait
  6. If your symptoms improve and you do not need to call 999, you still need to see a doctor or asthma nurse within 24 hours


If your asthma attack has occurred within the University please phone 333 for an ambulance a first aider


If you are a hay fever sufferer over the counter medicines can be purchased from any pharmacy, if you drive or use machinery it is sensible to purchase medicines that are not likely to result in drowsiness.


For further advice about asthma contact the Asthma UK Adviceline at or on 08457 01 02 03

HSE Guidance is also