The Woolcock Institute of Medical Research

It's important for people with asthma or other lung conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to be prepared for the adverse effects of bushfires and extreme weather events, such as asthma thunderstorms. 

In a recent interview in Your Life Choices Magazine, the Woolcock's Professor Bandana Saini provided a checklist on how to protect yourself from any sudden changes in climatic conditions.

"It's important that people with asthma or other lung conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are a bit wary about what's happening around them," Bandana says. 

"If you have asthma, a very good way to prevent terrible flare-ups happening due to the weather is to ensure you're using a preventative inhaler, as prescribed by your doctor, and that you're using your inhaler correctly."

"Inhalers are difficult to use. It's tricky making sure you get the most out of your inhaler. And that's where your pharmacist can be very helpful. Drop in and see your pharmacist and ask them 'Can you check how I'm using my inhaler?'. Your pharmacist can help you with anything you might not be doing well."

Find out more

• Listen to the interview with John Deeks from YourLifeChoices magazine
• Asthma Australia has additional resources for planning for and coping with extreme weather 
• The Australian Bureau of Meteorology has links to air quality information across Australia
• Pollen apps: AusPollen (Brisbane, Melbourne and other parts of Victoria, Sydney and Canberra); AirRater (Tasmania or the ACT)
• About Bandana