Helping You Help Yourself – The Asthma & COPD Education Centre

ASTHMA

Asthma is inflammation and narrowing of the bronchial tubes through which air travels in and out of the lungs that can lead to wheezing, tightness in the chest, trouble breathing, shortness of breath and other symptoms.

While the cause is not known, current research suggests a combination of environment, genetics and biology may lead to asthma. Each year, approximately 2,000 people are treated in the KEMH Emergency Room with breathing difficulties related to asthma.

It is apparent that many of these cases could be avoided with proper preventive treatment. That’s why our focus at the KEMH Asthma Education Centre is to teach self-management skills to people who have been diagnosed with asthma to help them maintain control using the least amount of medication. Among other things, the Centre will provide a peak flow meter and a “spacer” to increase the effective delivery of medication.

COPD

We also provide support and education for clients who have been diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a serious lung disease that is sometimes called emphysema or chronic bronchitis. Self–management skill are taught and action care plan given. Smokers are helped to quit.

Is your asthma well controlled?

Do you use your “reliever” blue inhaler more than twice a week?

Do you have asthma symptoms more than twice a week- coughing, wheezing or tight chest?

Do you ever wake at night or have to restrict your activities due to asthma?

If you answer YES to any of these questions, GET ASTHMA EDUCATION.

Book an appointment with our Asthma Nurse Educator. No referral is necessary and basic insurance covers the cost.

Attachment(s): Asthma Centre Brochure- Dec 2011, COPD Brochure - May 2011