As we leave the winter months behind and look forward to warmer days ahead, Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedics are urging Victorians to update their asthma plans to stay safe this spring.
Spring conditions often present allergens and triggers for people living with asthma and if it's unmanaged or not prevented, it can develop into a serious health concern.
Around one in nine Victorians live with asthma and it can affect people of all ages.
Ambulance Victoria Director Emergency Management Justin Dunlop said our paramedics know well that if people don't have an asthma action plan in place, it can become life-threatening.
"The conditions will change quickly in the coming weeks, so we want everyone with asthma to be ready with a plan," he said,
"It's simple - visit your GP and they can create an action plan with you.
"Everyone's asthma action plan will look different, and it will help you manage your condition, ensuring you don't find yourself in an emergency."
Adults should update their asthma action plan yearly, and for children, every six months is recommended.
The start of the season also marks National Asthma Week from 1 to 7 September, which aims to raise awareness for the condition and ways to manage it.
Common triggers for asthma include outdoor allergens such as pollen, dust, air pollution and even thunderstorms, while gas cooktops, mould and dust mites inside the home can also cause a reaction.
Keep an eye out for symptoms such as wheezing, breathlessness, shortness of breath, coughing and chest tightness.
"By taking preventative action and taking asthma seriously, you're making a real difference for our busy paramedics who are facing high demand," Justin said.
