Asthma Spotlight

Improve Asthma Care - Three simple tasks for clinicians

Sat, 27 Dec 2025 14:55:02 GMT

Asthma care needs to be improved as a matter of urgency in the United kingdom and probably elsewhere as well. As we near the end of 2025, with evidence of poor outcomes especially in children and young people, its time for a new years resolution for clinicians caring for people with asthma. In my final Asthmaspotlight podcast episode for 2025, I strongly suggest three actions that doctors can take to improve the lives of their patients with asthma or suspected asthma. By implementing these three logical actions, asthma attacks, hospitalisations and deaths as well as clinicians workload will be reduced in my view. These are, i) using simple evidence based treatment for asthma, ii) ensuring the term asthma or suspected asthma is recorded in the medical notes and iii) understanding that asthma is a chronic, not simply an acute disease requiring optimisation of the underlying chronic disease as part of the management of acute attacks which indicate that chronic management has failed.

For more information on the latest asthma guidance see www.ginasthma.org and for practical ideas for improving asthma care see www.bigcatdoc.com and for a talk on how to perform a post asthma attack review see https://bit.ly/3I48YLG

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as possible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

ADDITIONAL LEGAL DISCLAIMER All Asthma Spotlight Podcast and videos: This blog, video or podcast should not be used in any legal capacity whatsoever, including but not limited to establishing “standard of care” in a legal sense or as a basis for expert witness testimony. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of any statements or opinions made on the podcast or blog.

Privacy notice Asthma Spotlight Podcast and videos: While you may give your email address to me if you send any questions to asthmaspotlight@gmail.com to be answered in future podcasts, I will never share your email address or contact information with any third parties without your explicit permission.

Advertising policy Asthma Spotlight Podcast: The Asthma Spotlight podcast and videos may receive advertising money; Dr Mark Levy and any other presenters on Asthma Spotlight podcast do NOT endorse any of the adverts placed on the sites.

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New Asthma Research Findings: CARE Study

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 23:45:24 GMT

New evidence for Anti-inflammatory Reliever Therapy (AIR) in children aged 5-15 with mild asthma. The New Zealand CARE study confirmed that inhaled Budesonide (an anti-inflammatory controller) in combination with formoterol (a fast acting, long-acting bronchodilator ) is more effective than salbutamol reliever in reducing asthma attacks. T the combination Anti-inflammatory reliever inhaler instead of a salbutamol reliever for relief of symptoms led to a reduction of asthma attacks in about half of those studied.There is now no rationale for prescribing salbutamol alone for relief of symptoms without an inhaled corticosteroid in children 5 years and over who have asthma. For more information see https://bit.ly/4nPGRzc and www.ginasthma.org

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST Disclaimer: The opinions I express in this Asthma Spotlight PODCAST are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contains my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as possible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includesbut is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

ADDITIONAL LEGAL DISCLAIMER All Asthma Spotlight Podcast: This blog or podcast should not be used in any legal capacity whatsoever, including but not limited to establishing “standard of care” in a legal sense or as a basis for expert witness testimony. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of any statements or opinions made on the podcast or blog.

Advertising policy Asthma Spotlight Podcast: The Asthma Spotlight podcast may receive advertising money; Dr Mark Levy and any other presenters on Asthma Spotlight podcast do NOT endorse any of the adverts placed on the site.

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Preventable child deaths

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 11:03:37 GMT

Tragically after 60 years preventable asthma deaths continue in childhood in the UK. The shocking revelation in this interview with Sylvia Stoianova that one child dies every month in England due to asthma is highlighted in the recent report on child deaths due to asthma and anaphylaxis. (NCMD.info/asthma) Despite previous attendances for acute asthma (65%) and anaphylaxis (47%) in the year before they died, health care professionals failed to take appropriate action to prevent these deaths. After 60 years and more than 25 UK studies and reports on preventable deaths -It is time for asthma and anaphylaxis to be taken seriously in the UK and that means that health care professionals must take personal responsibility to ensure they are competent in managing these diseases.

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Asthma care in Canada

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 13:58:34 GMT

Canada has amoungst the lowest numbers of asthma deaths in the world. In this interview with Dr Alan Kaplan a Canadian General Practitioner with a special interest in asthma we explore differences in care provided in Canada with that in the United Kingdom. Key differences include that unlike in the UK asthma care in Canada is not delegated to individuals without training in asthma, and that asthma is regarded as a serious condition, where in the UK its mainly treated as if its an acute rather than a chronic underlying disease. Dr Kaplan is a member of the International Primary Care Respiratory Group (IPCRG) : https://www.ipcrg.org/ and the GINA Science Committee: www.ginasthma.org

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End asthma attacks- 2025

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 10:46:41 GMT

Lets end asthma attacks and deaths in 2025! The recent NCMD report (bit.ly/49Pg1BD) found that on average one child dies from asthma every month in England. This is one of 25 reports, papers, confidential enquiries published in the UK in the last 60 years. That these potentially preventable deaths continue in the UK is unacceptable. In this podcast Ive made some suggested changes that clinicians could adopt as a new years resolution to put an end to preventable asthma attacks and deaths – most can be prevented and all it takes is a few modifications to the way attacks are managed. For more information see:

bit.ly/436r063, bit.ly/3vxpxJt, https://bit.ly/4gW6zyA

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NCMD Child Death report: Asthma and Anaphylaxis

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 00:20:12 GMT

The National Child mortality database (the NCMD) published a report on deaths in children due to asthma and anaphylaxis in England, between 2019 and 2023. Most of the children who died from asthma had past evidence of well known modifiable risk factors for poor outcomes. Had these factors been identified and acted upon, many of these deaths could possibly have been prevented. This is the 26th publication in the UK that I’m aware of on preventable deaths due to asthma. Asthma is the commonest non-communicable disease affecting about 15% of children. This report from the National Child Mortality Database is clearly a wakeup call for politicians and all those health managers and clinicians responsible for caring for children. See also - bit.ly/3vxpxJt

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2024 UK Asthma Guideline

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 20:14:17 GMT

After 5 years, a new UK asthma guideline was published in November 2025. The document is fairly long and has multiple links to other documents which may or may not be read by general practitioners or generalist paediatricians and physicians. So in this podcast I’ve discussed four key messages from the document which in my view could improve asthma care right away. Please do also listen to podcast number 52 for a practical approach to reducing future attacks

See https://bjgp.org/content/74/739/86 for an article on AIR therapy

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New UK ASthma Guideline draft: Treatment

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 11:16:50 GMT

Its 5 years since the UK asthma guidelines were updated. In June 2024 new draft chronic asthma guidelines were published by NICE, the BTS and SIGN. Over 600 feedback responses with comments on this draft were sent to the authors for consideration before publishing the new guideline. In this second of two podcasts I’m joined by Daryl Freeman and Toby Capstick to discuss the treatment section of draft. See https://bit.ly/3XSGHge

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New UK asthma Guideline: Diagnosis

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 21:21:52 GMT

It’s 5 years since the UK asthma guidelines were updated. In June 2024 new draft chronic asthma guidelines were published by NICE/BTS/SIGN. Over 600 feedback responses were comments on this draft were sent to the authors for consideration before publishing the new guideline. In this first of two podcasts I’m joined by Daryl Freeman and Toby Capstick to discuss their views on the draft. See https://bit.ly/3XSGHge

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AIR Therapy - more detail

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 17:49:43 GMT

Many health care professionals who prescribe asthma treatment are not aware of Anti-Inflammatory Reliever (AIR) Therapy. This podcast clarifies this and will hopefully be a ‘light-bulb’ moment for doctors and nurses who prescribe for people with asthma. It will also be helpful for those non-medically trained people delegated to provide assistance and education to understand this treatment for people with asthma, as well of course people with asthma can benefit from this podcast. The two types of AIR Therapy are summarised - they are MART (MAintenance and Reliever Therapy, and As Needed AIR Therapy for so called mild asthma. See also https://ginasthma.org/reports/ and https://bigcatdoc.com/ for more information on asthma.

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Wheeze is not a diagnosis

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 17:45:49 GMT

One of the biggest risks for people with asthma is in those whose asthma is not yet diagnosed. People are often being treated for symptoms, like cough or wheezing without a medical diagnosis. So despite having repeated episodes of respiratory symptoms, these episodes are simply treated as one off acute events with cough mixtures, or antibiotics or inhaler medication. As I’ve said in previous podcasts, asthma is a chronic ongoing disease requiring ongoing treatment to prevent attacks, and is NOT an acute one off disease and in this podcast I’ll share my thoughts and reasons why I think this is a problem. This is particularly relevant because the new draft UK asthma guidelines do not help address this issue of failure to diagnose asthma. For more information on asthma see https://bigcatdoc.com

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Asthma Attack - Near Miss

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 19:58:22 GMT

Asthma attacks and asthma deaths are mostly preventable with good care. There is often a lot of publicity, about people who die from asthma. However, not much about people with asthma who have 'near misses'. i.e. life threatening attacks where the management is below expected. thisa happened recently to a young girl, who I had looked after 5 years ago in a general practice. Mom contacted me andt she and her husband agreed for me to share the story about their child who had a near miss asthma attack in 2024 - just about 10 years after we published the National Review of Asthma Deaths. I am really saddened that in the UK, we have still not implemented a robust system for managing asthma, the commonest chronic childhood disease. This podcast discusses some lessons for health professionals and provides some ideas to help parents of children with asthma. Please also see my suggested plan for an ongoing system of clinical audit .for primary care to start reflecting on and tackling this disease properly. GPs please see https://bit.ly/3vxpxJt for an audit system to reflect on asthma attacks.

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Severe Asthma

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 20:32:32 GMT

Severe asthma causes misery for many people, it is underdiagnosed and yet it contributes significantly to poor outcomes due to asthma and is very costly for health care providers. About 3-5% of people with asthma have severe asthma and if suspected or confirmed should be cared for by asthma specialists. In this interview with DR Hitasha Rupani, you will understand a lot about this type of asthma irrewspective if you are a sufferer or a health care professional. The information could save someone's life.

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Asthma Therapy 2024

Sun, 31 Mar 2024 13:21:59 GMT

Many colleagues have asked for an explanation on Maintenance and Reliever Therapy (MART) for asthma. Ther is a considerable body of exidence supporting the use of Anti-inflammatory Reliever (AIR) therapy for asthma which is more effective and safer than the use of separate inhalers prescribed for relief and prevention opf asthma. There are two forms of AIR therapy authorised by regulators and these are MART for those with moderate to severe asthma and also 'as needed AIR instea=d of Short-acting bronchodilators (SABAs) for relief of symptoms in people wiyh mild asthma. This podcast explains the rationale and some of the practicalities related to AIR therapy and is useful both for health care professionals and people with & parents of people with with asthma. See https://bjgp.org/content/74/739/86 for the research evidence for this approach.

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Asthma 2024- Timing Asthma Reviews

Sat, 16 Mar 2024 16:29:17 GMT

Thefre is no point in doing an asthma review when someone is 100% fit ands well. Asthma is a chronic disease prone to flare ups or attacks which could be life threatening. Its characterised by intermittent symptoms or attacks with other periods when the disease is very well controlled and the person has no symptoms. So performing an assessment may be unhelpful if the person is well on that day. So in this episode, Ive concentrated on when to best make use of a health professionals time and skills in deciding whether any of the care needs optimising. Ive also described how people with asthma, and parents of children with asthma can take some responsibility for deciding when they need to seek medical assistance for a review. Ive suggested how health care professionals can best use their skills and asthma training for the benefit of patients, to reduce attacks and unscheduled care requiremen. Please see my 7-Step Plan to prevent attacks: https://bigcatdoc.com/2024/01/10/2024-identify-that-an-asthma-attack-is-a-red-flag/

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Asthma 2024-Grave risk for UK patients and doctors

Sat, 09 Mar 2024 16:37:30 GMT

Asthma management in primary care in the UK has reached a stage where patients and doctors are at grave risk. The problem being that a large proportion of asthma care is being delegated inappropriately to individuals (Physician and nurse associates, health care assistants, untrained nurses and pharmacists for eg) who may not be adequately trained for the roles they are being asked to perform. As a result of political pressure to generate data to give appearances that patients are accessing care (through directing them to pharmacies, care hubs, and individuals within primary care), without adequate training or supervision. Also the UK General Medical Council has highlighted the need for doctors to delegate responsibly. So patients are being put at risk and general practitioners are putting their registration at risk as well as becoming further deskilled in managing asthma. Have a look at my 7-Step plan to try and improve patient care and at the same time educate all practice staff in recognising risk and changing systems for asthma care. https://bit.ly/3vxpxJt

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Preventing Asthma Attacks - 5

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 23:28:36 GMT

The tragic death of another child due to asthma is the last straw for me. Most asthma attacks and deaths are potentially preventable. These preventable deaths in children particularly must stop. So Ive developed a 7-step plan to help general practices identify and review all those who have an asthma attack in a regular practice meeting - at least monthly. The key being to identify and fix modifiable risk factors for the patient after the attack, and to create systems to prevent attacks in others. see; bit.ly/3vxpxJt for details on the suggested system. This and the most recent podcasts were discussions on the different risk factors and some practical ideas for dealing with them. Please share any comments via email to me at asthmaspotlight@gmail.com

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Preventing Asthma Attacks - 4

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 22:50:36 GMT

Continuing the current series on identifying modifiable risk factors that may have contributed to or caused an asthma attack, this podcast is about some of the conditions that may co-exist in addition to asthma. Once identified, they can be dealt with appropriately to try and improve asthma control and prevent future attacks. Please do listen to the episode on a recent inquest that concluded that a 10 year old boy's death due to asthma could have been prevented. (https://shows.acast.com/634ea305797059001268b976/6586cddc3f6ace00163958d6) and my 7-Step Plan to end asthma attacks in primary care (https://bigcatdoc.com/2024/01/10/2024-identify-that-an-asthma-attack-is-a-red-flag/)

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Preventing asthma attacks -3

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 16:34:53 GMT

Asthma attacks and deaths are preventable in the vast majority of these episodes. This is the third episode on practical ways that health care professionals can identify and deal with potentially preventable factors that cause asthma attacks - in this case Ive focussed on inhaler technique - the key message being that if someone cannot use their inhaler properly - the drug will not be able to reach the place in the lungs where it works. This episode will help in implementing my 7-Step Plan to eradicate asthma attacks, which will benefit patients through reduced preventable attacks and deaths and also reduce workload for health carers through reduction in unscheduled attendance for treatment of attacks. For details on the 7-Step Plan see: https://bigcatdoc.com/2024/01/10/2024-identify-that-an-asthma-attack-is-a-red-flag/

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Preventing asthma attacks-2

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 16:47:12 GMT

This is the second episode aimed primarily for general practitioners and emphasises the rationale and need for all those diagnosed with asthma to be prescribed inhaled corticosteroids either as needed depending on the local licence, or regularly. In many asthma attacks and deaths, people have either not been prescribed or are not collecting sufficient inhaled corticosteroid preventer medication. The three ways these inhaled corticosteroid inhalers can be prescribed are described in the podcast and some ways that general practices v=can identify those who are taking insufficient are detailed in the podcast. Please listen to episode 50 for some backgroung and do have a look at my website www.bigcatdoc.com. Also do email me with any queries - asthmaspotlight@gmail.com.

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Preventing Asthma Attacks - 1

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 12:54:05 GMT

This is the first in a series of discussions to help primary care eradicate asthma attacks and preventable asthma deaths. Following the recent inquest report on a potentially preventable death due to asthma in a 10 year old boy, I am continuing with my attempt to encourage general practices to accept that this is the last straw. Too many potentially preventable asthma deaths continue to be reported in the UK and GPs have the ability to end this appalling, tragic situation. Please see my web description of the 7 Step Plan to eradicate asthma attacks at : https://bigcatdoc.com/2024/01/10/2024-identify-that-an-asthma-attack-is-a-red-flag/ . In this episode Ive started a discussion on practical ways to approach the problem - its not rocket science!

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2024 – a new approach for asthma

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 06:00:19 GMT

An asthma attack is a significant event because it is preventable and can cause harm, even death. So Generakl practitioners should see evry asthma attack in patients as a signal that treatment has failed and make every effiort to identify potentially modifiable risk factors (like excess SABA, insufficient preventer, poor adherence, poor inhaler technique and take action to fix the problem. A simple 7-step plan provides a practical method to end asthma attacks in patients. Please see https://bigcatdoc.com/2024/01/10/2024-identify-that-an-asthma-attack-is-a-red-flag/ for an explanation and for an example template form for reviewing people who have had attacks.

ADDITIONAL LEGAL

DISCLAIMER All Asthma Spotlight Podcast and videos: This blog, video or podcast should not be used in any legal

capacity whatsoever, including but not limited to establishing “standard of

care” in a legal sense or as a basis for expert witness testimony. No

guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of any statements or opinions made on

the podcast or blog.

Privacy notice Asthma

Spotlight Podcast and videos: While you may give

your email address to me if you send any questions to asthmaspotlight@gmail.com to be

answered in future podcasts, I will never share your email address or contact

information with any third parties without your explicit permission.

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A 2024 plan to end asthma attacks

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 10:50:13 GMT

Asthma attacks and preventable deaths can be reduced by recognising and dealing with modifiable risk factors. Common risk factors for asthma attacks include: excess prescriptions and use of reliever inhalers; insufficient or no prescription of inhaled corticosteroid preventer inhalers; poor inhaler technique; exposure to triggers like non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; smoking (including vaping). I have suggested a 7-step plan to reduce preventable asthma attacks and deaths. Please also see my talk on Youtube at https://youtu.be/wlJ0a7_qgPI see also my blog on this topic at https://bit.ly/3vxpxJt

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Asthma - A Tragic Death of a child

Sat, 23 Dec 2023 12:09:00 GMT

Asthma deaths in children are tragic and in most cases potentially avoidable. This podcast was prompted by the recent coroners report and regulation 28 statement aimed at preventing future deaths, available at - https://bit.ly/3tDVr6h . All doctors and nurses, pharmacists, health care assistants and managers responsible for caring for children - all children - because asthma is the commonest chronic childhood illness should listen to this story and share it with colleagues. Parents and people with asthma will also find this information useful. There is an urgent need to end complacency about asthma care particularly in the UNited Kingdom. Please email me with any comments and see my website for more information. - www.bigcatdoc.com

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Asthma Plans- What Health Professionals should Know in 2024

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 13:45:57 GMT

Asthma is a chronic ongoing disease. Sadly it is often treated by health care professionals as if its an acute condition - ie attacks are treated without any investigation of cause and without follow up to address modifiable risk factors. In this episode I have emphasised the use of agreeing personal self management plans for attacks to also educate people on identifying poor control. Please do email me with any queries and share this with front line health care professionals in primary care and ED/A&E.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every efforwithout any investigation of the cause - and t to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as possible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

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Asthma attacks and virus infections

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 00:05:47 GMT

There are lots of causes of asthma attacks. The common cold virus, the Rhinovirus is one of the commonest causes. The key to avoiding asthma attacks is to ensi=ure good control of underlying inflammation - by taking preventer medication as prescribed by your doctor! Ive used Dr Stan Szeffler's use of a volcanic eruption to describe what happens in an asthma attack - where there ios underlying poor control with increased inflammation and then a virus comes along and adds to the inflammation with increased inflammation, increased twitchiness and narrowing of the airways all combining into a an 'eruption or explosive' asthma attack - very much like the way the lava boils away and then explodes into a volcanic eruption.

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Travel and your asthma

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 23:05:52 GMT

Asthma attacks can happen without warning and this podcast focusses on preparation and dealing with asthma attacks when away from home. Preventing asthma attacks by following your doctors advice regarding your preventer medication is key to staying safe when going on holiday or visiting away from home. This podcast is intended for people with asthma, their children, and also health care professionals caring for them. Facilities and conditions at the destination, having a personal self management plan, self assessment of severity of attacks and getting help are all discussed. How to use peak flow measurements to identify and to tell how bad attacks are is available in this video: https://youtu.be/ycKGtrP55l8 .

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Concerns about asthma prescribing

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 23:05:34 GMT

I got really concerned reading social media posts by people about their asthma treatment. Two issues worried me - first that there are changes in medication prescriptions without clear explanation for patients (these seem to be done remotely without face to face consults some cases). Second from patients accounts, it seems that some doctors are not aware of the different properties of long acting reliever bronchodilators. Asthma management is not very complicated however without proper treatment, attacks and deaths can result. So its really important for health care professionals to be fully aware of current evidence for best treatment practice. In addition patients need to be well educated by their doctors, nurses and pharmacists which includes an agreed written self management plan, so they understand how to use their medication properly. For examples of self management plans see https://bigcatdoc.com/2023/05/15/resources-and-current-reading-for-people-with-asthma/

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Asthma, Food allergy and anaphylaxis

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 23:05:09 GMT

Research in 2023 found that 40% of children who were treated for anaphylaxis were not prescribed essential medication, adrenaline autoinjectors, after treatment for an attack. This episode of the Asthma Spotlight Podcast is for parents and children who are at risk of having anaphylaxis - a sudden, life threatening response to something that you are allergic to. More information about anaphylaxis is provided in the link to my website where resources for parents and health care professionals can be found.

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Asthma attacks - causes

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 23:05:23 GMT

Asthma attacks are not always easy to recognise and it can be difficult to identify what causes these attacks, or flare ups or exacerbations. There are things or circumstances that acn spark off or trigger attacks and its important to try and notice any particular associations with these attacks. So do you get attacks when you play in fields - this may be assoiciated with allergy for example to grass, or horses. Do you get symptoms or attacks only when you are at work - if so you may have occupational asthma; do you get asthma every time you visit family who have a cat - you may be allergic. So its helpful and may speed up your diagnosis, and treatment, if you mention to your doctor or asthma nurse if you do notice particular times when you get attacks. In this podcast, I discuss some of the common triggers and circumstances associated with asthma attacks. If you have any queries or concerns about asthma that you'd like me to discuss, please do send an email to asthmaspotlight@gmail.com.

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Why guidelines are not implemented

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 23:05:21 GMT

Asthma guidelines are not followed by health care professionals looking after people with asthma. In episode 42, I spoke about why there is a need for guidelines and how these are developed. In this episode I discuss some of the reasons why I think doctors and nurses dont use the recommendations when they treat your asthma. Once again I repeat the absolute need for you to learn what is recommended by experts in the asthma guidelines so you know waht to expect for yourself or your child when you consult for your asthma ( see https://bit.ly/3PqghwY) . Please let me have feedback on this and other podcasts and also any questions you would like answered in future podcasts. my email address: asthmaspotlight@gmail.com

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Asthma Guidelines explained

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 23:05:49 GMT

In this episode of the asthma spotlight podcast Ive explained how asthma guidelines are used for the management of your or your child's asthma.

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Interview with Louise Fleming - paediatric respiratory specialist

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 23:05:57 GMT

Severe asthma is a particular problem for some children with asthma. Many people with possible severe asthma are not referred to specialists. This asthma podcast for parents of children with asthma and doctors and nurses caring for children and young people with asthma.Dr Louise Fleming is an expert in paediatric asthma and has a special interest in difficult to treat and severe asthma. Focussing on severe asthma, the information she shares helps parents to understand asthma severity. She clearly explains how the process of assessment starts with identifying factors that could be modified before a diagnosis of severe asthma is made. Clues for possible severe asthma for parents are discussed with signals that should alert a need for parents to ask for a referral. to a specialist. The podcast will also be of interest for anyone responsible for commissioning or paying for asthma care both in primary and secondary care.

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Interview with Professor Sir Peter Barnes

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 23:05:35 GMT

Professor Sir Peter Barnes is a clinician and research scientist. He is one of the best known and most highly cited researchers world wide in the field of respiratory medicine. In this interview we discussed aspects of his research work and it was an opportunity to share his insights and thoughts about the way asthma is managed and what he forsees for the future in this area. He also shared ideas for improving the way that asthma is managed. Please share this interview with others.

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Asthma - When Emergency help is needed

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 23:06:37 GMT

Asthma attacks are medical emergencies. Many people do not call for or get emergency help when asthma flare ups are severe. In the National review of asthma deaths 45% 0f those who died from asthma did not get emergency help. In this asthma podcast I discuss some of the problems I think exist about current self management plans. There is a need for very clear instructions on action to be taken during attacks. In particular I share my thoughts on when someone having an asthma attack should consider calling for emergency assistance. Many clinicians don't understand that asthma education must be tailored to the patient's age, aptitude and ability to understand how to manage their asthma. In other words, asthma education is not 'one size fits all'. There is also a clear need to raise public awareness about First Aid For Asthma. See https://bigcatdoc.com/2023/08/29/an-asthma-attack-is-a-medical-emergency/ for more information. which includes examples of the excellent Asthma First Aid Plans/Posters for members of the public.

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For parents of children with asthma

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 23:04:16 GMT

Asthma treatment aims to prevent asthma exacerbations (attacks). Children with asthma require expertise & knowledge by doctors, nurses, pharmacists and parents and children themselves. In this interview Viv Marsh specialist asthma nurse shares her thoughts and ideas on asthma care - both for parents and health care professionals. Asthma attacks (also called exacerbations) must be taken more seriously and we discuss how to get the best from your doctor or asthma trained nurse. Children and Young people with asthma have now been included as a priority by NHS England The National bundle of care for children and young people with asthma is phase one of a plan to support integrated care systems to deliver high quality asthma care.. This should mean that providers of health care should provide access for parents and children to improved quality of asthma care in the United Kingdom - sadly access to good quality asthma care is still a 'postcode lottery' where its the luck of the draw whether you get to see a doctor or a nurse with asthma expertise.

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Asthma exacerbations are not prevented by routine telephone reviews

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 23:05:35 GMT

Routine asthma reviews aim to implement guideline recommendations to identify risk factors and deal with these to prevent exacerbations or attacks. Inhaler technique cannot be taught or assessed by phone. Remote routine asthma reviews are becoming very common in UK primary care, especially telephone reviews and this concerns me a lot. Unless these are done by very experienced asthma clinicians they could have adverse consequences. A good asthma review should start with a question whether the person does have asthma; if the diagnosis is not clear detailed medical history , examination and possible referral is needed. Next, if you do have asthma is it well controlled; what treatment have you been prescribed, are you taking it, and most importantly, are you using your inhaler correctly. Are there any risk factors for future asthma attacks; do you have any concerns about your asthma? Finally the review should also include an agreed asthma self management plan. In my view a review of this quality. cannot be done by phone.

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Wheeze is NOT a diagnosis

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 23:05:29 GMT

Wheeze is one of the symptoms of asthma. Wheeze could be due to numerous diseases and It is essential to make a clear diagnosis so that a treatment plan can be formulated. The terms such as 'acute viral wheeze', 'acute wheeze' or simply 'wheeze' used by doctors when discharging children from acute attacks of wheeze are unhelpful for parents or family doctors and could result in harmful outcomes.

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How to organise follow up after an asthma attack

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 23:05:30 GMT

An asthma attack is a red flag warning that something has gone wrong. An attack is also a predictor that another one will happen, therefore it is vital to have an asthma check-up soon after an attack to find out what web=nt wrong and what can be done to prevent another one. In this interview with Lesley Kennedy and Mike Shields; specialist asthma nurse and a consultant paediatrician we learn of an effective approach to dealing with this in Northern Ireland. This system could be used elsewhere to reduce the burden of asthma in children as well as adults. See https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fped.2022.865476/full for their report

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Richard Beasley on AIR therapy

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 23:05:14 GMT

Asthma treatment has relied on use of blue relievers for over 50 years. In this interview with Professor Richard Beasley it is clear that its time to implement the evidence in favour of using a 2 in one anti-inflammatory reliever inhaler (puffer) instead of the blue salbutamol/albuterol (SABAs) one for relief of asthma symptoms like wheeze, cough or tight chest feeling. The research shows that this approach, compared with using SABAs is effective in reducing symptoms like shortness of breath, and severe attacks of asthma irrespective of the severity of your asthma. Follow the link at https://www.nzrespiratoryguidelines.co.nz/adultguidelines.html to learn about the care of asthma in New Zealand.

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Acute Asthma and Oral Corticosteroid tablets

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 23:06:52 GMT

Many people are afraid to take cortisone treatment for asthma. The key message in this podcast episode is that short courses of corticosteroid (Steroid) tablets are life saving treatment in asthma attacks. However repeated courses of these can be harmful. Therefore the main aim of asthma treatment is to prevent asthma attacks and the need for steroid tablets by treatment with lower doses of corticosteroids delivered by inhalers. This episode explains some of the issues for people with asthma, parents of children with asthma and also for doctors, nurses and other health care professionals. Please send comments or questions to asthmaspotlight@gmail.com - these will be dealt with in future podcasts in general terms - you should address personal health questions to your own doctor who will deal with these.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realise that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as possible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

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Asthma inhalers, puffers, spacers and nebulisers

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 23:06:07 GMT

There are three important things that people with asthma should know about inhalers and inhalation medication ie the puffers used for treating asthma. These are inhaler technique or the way you use your inhaler; spacers, the plastic chambers that are used with the pressurised inhalers: and nebulisers. The issues related to treatment of asthma symptoms like cough, wheeze, difficulty getting breath,or tight chest feeling, are discussed in this podcast. I suggest also listen to episodes 6,7 and 25 related to this topic where I speak about the different treatments for asthma to help you in your breathing, to lead a normal life and to prevent asthma attacks..

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

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Interview with Professor Andy Bush

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 08:04:03 GMT

In this week's Asthma Spotlight Podcast Professor Andy Bush, respiratory specialist paediatrician shares some of his thoughts about the management of childhood asthma in the United Kingdom and also addresses some important aspects related to asthma care in children which are of interest for parents of children with asthma as well as health care professionals in the UK and other countries. These include diagnosis, recognising that asthma is a very serious disease and that attacks are a signal that urgent action is needed to identify modifiable risk factors and to deal with these.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

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Asthma in the UK – my personal reflections

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 23:06:40 GMT

The United Kingdom has amongst the worst asthma outcomes in the world and despite potential access to excellent specialist asthma care. So how have we got to this situation? What is it about the way asthma is managed in the United Kingdom that prevents us from making preventable asthma attacks & deaths ....'never events'. In this podcast I share some of my thoughts and reflections on these questions and the clear failure to provide consistent effective nationwide care of people with asthma in the United Kingdom. Ive put a link to the National Review of asthma Deaths (NRAD) which was published in 2014 and which has been partially implemented in local patches however it has never been implemented in full on a national scale. So we have the evidence of whats going wrong, however we are not implementing solutions - why not? Please email me with your thoughts about this podcast and examples of successful asthma care from other countries that could be the subject of future podcasts : asthmaspotlight@Gmail.com

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

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Work related asthma - occupational asthma

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 23:05:51 GMT

Occupational or work induced asthma is one kind of asthma that is important to diagnose because it can potentially be cured if your work environment is changed or if you change your job. Clues that you may have occupational asthma are if your symptoms are worse at work and that improve when you are away from work. I have provided a brief introduction th this topic in this episode - a list of causes of occupational asthma can be found at https://www.hse.gov.uk/asthma/substances.htm.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

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Know your own asthma

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 23:05:14 GMT

Its important to understand that an asthma consultation with a health carer is a two way process, and it is in your own interests to be know as much as possible about asthma and also its very helpful for the person you are consulting to be able to understand how your asthma affects your life. This podcast is about recognising patterns - in particular to help you link possible causes for your asthma attacks or flare-ups. This will help you to provide useful information for your doctor or asthma trained nurse so that your asthma treatment can be changed to try and prevent attacks or poor control of your asthma. Please also email me at asthmaspotlight@gmail.com with any requests for future topics for the podcast.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

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Trained nurses enhance asthma care

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 23:05:01 GMT

In the past, asthma care in the UK was mainly delivered by hospital doctors. Since the 1980's nurse training facilitated asthma care in general practice when it was provided mainly by nurses. Originally around 80% of these nurses caring for people with asthma had extensive asthma training. However due to reduced resources funding and time for nurses to train, plus increased demand for care for a number of long term illnesses, very few nurses currently delegated to care for people with asthma have had sufficient training. So it was indeed a pleasure to interview Bev Bostock who has specialised in a number of areas including asthma. She shares her experience and insights to help practices ensure that trained personel manage asthma care nurses delegated to provide asthma care and also provides guidance for nurses, and for people with asthma to get the most out of your asthma check up / review with a nurse in your general practice.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Steroid tablets for asthma flare-ups / attacks

Tue, 30 May 2023 23:04:30 GMT

This weeks podcast was prompted by some questions asked by people about their asthma - in particular about the use of corticosteroid tablets for asthma attacks. Someone with asthma should have a self management plan for flare-ups / acute attacks and importantly, in my view, should know when to use corticosteroid tablets and when to stop these. Ive discussed four questions in some detail - ie Should I have an acute asthma management plan? Should I have a course of steroid tablets to use if I have an asthma attack? How do I know when to take the steroid tablets? And how do I know when to stop the steroid tablets?

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

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Interview with Pharmacist-Garry McDonald

Tue, 23 May 2023 23:04:20 GMT

In the United Kingdom clinically trained pharmacists with additional training in asthma have a role in helping people with asthma to manage their disease. In this podcast interview with Garry McDonald a pharmacist with expertise in asthma and other respiratory diseases, he explains how pharmacists can help. His excellent description of how to use your inhaler and his role in promoting appropriate use of asthma inhaler images by the press and other issues we discussed will be of interest to people with asthma as well as health care providers and managers both in the UK and in other countries. I have included some of the websites we discuss on my website here.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

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Resources for people with asthma

Tue, 16 May 2023 23:05:07 GMT

When you or your child are diagnosed with asthma it can be difficult to get information and support to help you understand your disease and to manage to keep you safe and be able to lead a normal life. I decided to include an episode of the Asthma Spotlight Podcast on resources for people with asthma.

Please note that I have included a link to my website here to more information on the resources I’ve mentioned in this podcast. If you have any suggestions for additional information on the resource page, please email me at asthmaspotlight@gmail.com

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

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Asthma severity and treatment terminology explained

Tue, 09 May 2023 23:06:16 GMT

Many people with asthma and many health carers including doctors and nurses are confused by the terminology used to describe asthma severity and asthma treatment . This podcast is focussed on the five ways that asthma treatment is used. It also addresses the way that specialists, based on research findings have moved away from overreliance on short acting bronchodilators for treatment of asthma.

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Inequalities in asthma care

Mon, 01 May 2023 22:57:00 GMT

Tuesday 2nd May is World Asthma Day and the theme this year is 'Asthma Care for All'. The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) organises world asthma day and chooses the theme each year. So this episode is focussed on inequalities in asthma care, in particular access to good quality asthma care, socially deprived people and those exposed to indoor and outdoor pollution. These are inequalities in asthma care that apply both in low and middle income countries as well as high income countries. Unfortunately asthma care is often assumed to be a 'one size fits all' without specifically targeting individual people asthma requirements, with the result that inevitable inequalities are not addressed despite lots of evidence highlightine inequalities in asthma care. Some ideas are shared which will be of interest for people with asthma and also for health care managers who may be encouraged to focus asthma care and resources on people who are unfortunately victims of these inequalities.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posisble I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Growing out of asthma

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 20:58:00 GMT

Parents often ask if or when their child will grow out of their asthma. While there is lots of research information on the probabilities that particular children with particular characteristics may grow out of their asthma, this is a very difficult if impossible question to answer in the case of individual children. In this episode an example of a teenager's story is used to introduce the topic. Essentially, some children do grow out odf heir asthma, some do not, and some of those whose symptoms have seemed to clear up later develop asthma in adulthood. These scenarios are explained in this podcast and will be useful both for parents and for health care professionals looking after patients with asthma.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why do people die from asthma - 3

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 23:05:11 GMT

This is the third episode on in my series on why people still die from asthma. About half a million people die from asthma every year worldwide and there potentially preventable factors in most asthma deaths. This episode covers three more of these factors and the role they play in asthma deaths. These are asthma self management plans, management of asthma attacks and the role of a post asthma attack review in preventing deaths.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why do people die from asthma - 2

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 23:05:29 GMT

This is the second episode where potentially preventable factors related to asthma deaths are discussed. Three factors are included- that asthma severity is underestimated and asthma is not taken seriously by people with asthma as well as health care professionals; that quality of asthma care may not be adequate and that some medication can worsen asthma and not enough preventer medication can also put people at risk of asthma attacks and preventable death.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why do people die from asthma -1

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 23:05:13 GMT

Most asthma deaths are potentially preventable. In this first eposode on asthma deaths three potentially preventable risk factors are discussed. THios episode will be of interest for people with asthma, parents of children with asthma and also health care professionals caring for people with asthma.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Severity of asthma

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 23:05:02 GMT

Many people are confused by the terms severe and mild asthma. In this episode I have focussed on severe asthma because it is really important that people with suspected or confirmed severe asthma need to be assessed and supervised by asthma specialists. The episode is directed at people who have asthma, however if health professionals wish to read a detailed description of severe asthma - have a look at www.ginasthma.org and the evidence based section on severe asthma.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Asthma Apps - SmartRespiratory - Interview with Dr Thomas Antalfy

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 00:05:57 GMT

Digital applications have a role to play in management of asthma by people themselves (https://smartasthma.com). In this episode I have interviewed Dr Thomas Antalfy about his dose counter, peak flow meter and smartphone application for people with asthma. This sort of system can enable people with asthma to monitor their disease, and it has the capability to provide early warning signs that your asthma is out of control, or that an attack may be developing, it could also provide information that an attack is improving, as well as the ability to provide your doctor or asthma nurse with useful information when you have a review. In the last part of the interview we discuss uses of the system for clinicians & clinical managers to monitor their patients. see https://smartrespiratory.com

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Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Asthma triggers

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 22:54:30 GMT

Trigger factors that spark off asthma attacks can cause attacks to happen very suddenly without any warning. So its really important for people with asthma to know and learn about the things that spark off their attacks so that appropriate action can be taken to prevent atacks and the stop them from developing. Mainly by ensuring that controller/preventer treatment is taken as directed by your doctor.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Digital Health Passport - Asthma and allergy App

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 07:38:13 GMT

There are a number of digital applications (Apps) available for asthma and allergy. In this episode Dr Greg Burch explains the background, purpose and uses for the Digital Health Passport which is available for people in the Unitend Kingdom and Ireland. For more details and how to get the App see https://digitalhealthpassport.co/ .

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Blue reliever inhalers - whats the problem

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 00:05:03 GMT

Overuse of short acting reliever inhaler (they are usually blue) asthma inhalers is potentially harmful. Overuse or overreliance of these relievers is when you use this daily or more often than daily. The relievers only provide relaxation of the tightened air passages (ie in spasm) for about 4 hours. These drugs do NOT treat the underlying inflammation caused by asthma and they dont prevent attacks - if used regularly (more than daily) without a preventer, these relievers can actually cause an attack. Key message is that relievers should not be used as the only asthma treatment and that preventers (mainly inhaled corticosteroid) inhalers are the most effective treatment for most people's asthma.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What teachers and carers should know about asthma

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 00:05:21 GMT

Asthma attacks in children can be very frightening both for the child and also an adult looking after them. This episode is to help teachers, carers, relatives and others caring for children who have asthma to understand some of the basics of asthma and its management. Some suggested ways teachers and carers can help these children as well as some thoughts on recognising and dealing with attacks are included. Key messages arei) all children should have a self management plan thats shared with teachers and carers. ii) Parents should ensure that sufficient information and medication is provided for those caring for their child when away from home or at school.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ways that Inhaled corticosteroid preventers are prescribed

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 00:03:21 GMT

Inhaled corticosteroids are the drugs that are often prescribed by doctors to treat the underlying inflammation (or irritation) in the air passages of the lungs. They act to reduce symptoms, to prevent flair-ups and attacks of asthma - they help to keep you out of hospital. In this episode, three ways that these drugs are prescribed for use, depending on your age, the severity of your asthma, the availability of types of drugs and the rules for prescribing in your country. In summary they are prescribed regularly, or as Maintenance and reliever treatment (MART) or as Anti-inflammatory Reliever Treatmant (AIR).

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Asthma in children under 5 years old

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 07:39:18 GMT

Whether its possible to diagnose asthma in preschool children is controversial amongst non asthma experts - this is a topic that results in lots of debate amongst those caring for young children. Viral associated or viral induced wheeze is used as a common diagnosis in children having repeated episodes of coughing or wheezing. This episode of the ASthma Podcast discusses clues to the diagnosis of asthma in these children as well as the great disadvantage for those who have asthma but are not diagnosed with asthma despite being treated repeatedly with asthma medication. This episode will be helpful for parents as well as anyone looking after children.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Asthma reviews

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 00:10:24 GMT

Like any chronic disease, your asthma should to be checked from time to time to see if you are having any trouble that may need to be dealt with to fix any problems and bring the disease under control. In this episode you will learn why reviews soon after asthma attacks are important both to find out if the attack is over or if you need more treatment and the other reason for these reviews is to identify and fix any preventable factors to reduce the risk of future attacks. You will also learn abot routine reviews and how these can help you get better control of your asthma.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST Disclaimer: The opinions I express in this Asthma Spotlight PODCAST or video are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contains my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as possible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Personal asthma self management plans

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 00:05:54 GMT

Your own personal asthma self-management plan provided by your own doctor or trained asthma educator is an excellent resource to help you keep your asthma under control and to prevent attacks. This episode explains what these plans are and how they can help you look after yourself by understanding how your asthma drugs work, how to recognise danger signals, how to tell if an attack is starting and what to do if this happens.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to monitor your asthma control - part 2

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 00:05:20 GMT

How do you know when your asthma is flaring up. This is the second episode on keeping a check on your asthma.and is about using tests (objective tests) that provide numbers to tell how well controlled your asthma is, and that helps you to compare your asthma control with past control, and it should also help you make more use of your self management plan provided by your own doctor. The episode adds to the ways described in episode 6 for telling how your asthma is controlled using your symptoms and your response to your reliever medication prescribed by your doctor.

After listening to this episode you may find the video on using Peak Flow Meters helpful: The link is: https://youtu.be/ycKGtrP55l8

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST and YOUTUBE Disclaimer: The opinions I express in these blogs, podcasts and videos are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as posible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to monitor your asthma control - Part 1

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 00:05:00 GMT

How do you know when your asthma is flaring up. This episode is the first about monitoring your asthma – that is how to keep a check on how your asthma is doing. Most importantly how you can tell when your asthma is going out of control so you can take action using your self-management plan to prevent an attack from developing into something troublesome and preventing hospital admission. There are a number of ways you can check the status of your asthma and identify when your asthma is flaring up and an attack may be developing.

Three aspects related to poor asthma control are attacks, symptoms, and your response to your reliever medication. These are explained in this episode.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST Disclaimer: The opinions I express in this Asthma Spotlight PODCAST are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as possible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includes but is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

ADDITIONAL LEGAL DISCLAIMER All Asthma Spotlight Podcast: This blog or podcast

should not be used in any legal capacity whatsoever, including but not limited

to establishing “standard of care” in a legal sense or as a basis for expert

witness testimony. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of any

statements or opinions made on the podcast or blog.

Privacy notice Asthma

Spotlight Podcast: While you may

give your email address to me if you send any questions to asthmaspotlight@gmail.com to be

answered in future podcasts, I will never share your email address or contact

information with any third parties without your explicit permission.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Asthma reliever treatment

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 00:04:28 GMT

The reliever drugs are used for treating asthma symptoms and flare-ups.

There are two kinds of relievers; the short acting ones for emergency use for flare-ups or attacks of asthma - they don't control your asthma and they don't prevent attacks.

The long acting relievers are usually prescribed for asthma together with an inhaled corticosteroid. One of these long acting relievers is formoterol - which is also almost as fast as the short acting relievers. The inhalers that contain an inhaled corticosteroid and also formoterol are prescribed according to the licenced regulations in different ways depending on which country you live: 1) they are either prescribed to be used regularly - once or twice a day and the blue relievers are used for symptoms; or 2) they are prescribed to be used regularly - once or twice a day AND the same inhaler is also for relief instead of a blue short acting reliever - this is called MART or Maintenance and Reliever therapy; and 3,in some countries these are prescribed 'as needed' for symptoms without using the inhaler regularly - this is called Anti-Inflammatory Therapy or AIR.

The benefits as well as the possible risks related to use of relievers is explained in this episode.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST Disclaimer: The opinions I express in this Asthma Spotlight PODCAST are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as possible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includesbut is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

ADDITIONAL LEGAL DISCLAIMER All Asthma Spotlight Podcast: This blog or podcast should not be used in any legal capacity whatsoever, including but not limited to establishing “standard of care” in a legal sense or as a basis for expert witness testimony. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of any statements or opinions made on the podcast or blog.

Privacy notice Asthma Spotlight Podcast: While you may give your email address to me if you send any questions to asthmaspotlight@gmail.com to be answered in future podcasts, I will never share your email address or contact information with any third parties without your explicit permission.Advertising policy Asthma Spotlight Podcast: The Asthma Spotlight podcast may receive advertising money; Dr Mark Levy and any other presenters on Asthma Spotlight podcast do NOT endorse any of the adverts placed on the site.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Asthma treatment - Anti-Inflammatory drugs

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 00:09:42 GMT

This episode focusses on drug treatment for preventing asthma symptoms and attacks. s. The drugs prescribed to treat asthma inflammation are called anti-inflammatory drugs,or controllers or preventers. Asthma symptoms and flare-ups or asthma attacks are prevented or markedly reduced by the preventer/ controller medicines.

There are three types of anti-inflammatory controllers and preventers: i) Corticosteroids, which are prescribed in inhaler devices in most people with asthma; these drugs, also called steroids, are also prescribed in the form of tablets, liquid, or injections mainly for asthma attacks; ii) Leucotriene Receptor Antagonists (LTRA's) in tablet form; and iii) the disease modifying or biologic drugs for people with severe asthma, in the form of injections.

Drug prescription differs world wide, depending on regulations regarding the way the drugs are allowed to be used, These inhaled corticosteroids are the most effective drugs for preventing attacks and are prescribed in inhalers as single drugs or in combination with a long acting bronchodilator reliever,( which may be quick acting or slow acting) or in combination with a short acting reliever.

The main message in this episode is that the preventer/controller drugs work against the ongoing asthma inflammation to prevent attacks or at least to reduce the number of attacks due to this disease.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST Disclaimer: The opinions I express in this Asthma Spotlight PODCAST are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as possible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includesbut is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

ADDITIONAL LEGAL DISCLAIMER All Asthma Spotlight Podcast: This blog or podcast should not be used in any legal capacity whatsoever, including but not limited to establishing “standard of care” in a legal sense or as a basis for expert witness testimony. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of any statements or opinions made on the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is asthma

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 00:05:52 GMT

In this episode on the basics of asthma I explain about the role of the lungs, and why asthma is a potentially dangerous disease. Different types of asthma are described. Information on the ongoing, chronic, inflammation caused by asthma as well as the fact that asthma flares up with attacks is discussed. Also the episode includes a detailed explanation of how asthma affects the lungs, particularly how the air passages are narrowed due to swelling and tightening (spasm) of their walls results in their obstruction. As a result when asthma flares up (also called an exacerbation or an attack) the person develops respiratory symptoms and it becomes difficult to breathe, and the body gets short of oxygen which is dangerous. This basic information about asthma may also help you to understand the basics of how the different asthma drugs may work.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST Disclaimer: The opinions I express in this Asthma Spotlight PODCAST are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as possible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includesbut is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Privacy notice Asthma Spotlight Podcast: While you may give your email address to me if you send any questions to asthmaspotlight@gmail.com to be answered in future podcasts, I will never share your email address or contact information with any third parties without your explicit permission.Advertising policy Asthma Spotlight Podcast: The Asthma Spotlight podcast may receive advertising money; Dr Mark Levy and any other presenters on Asthma Spotlight podcast do NOT endorse any of the adverts placed on the site.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Asthma attacks and how to prevent them

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 00:05:21 GMT

When asthma goes out of control this results in symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing. Wheezing is a whistling noise that comes from the chest and is usually heard when breathing out.

These episodes of poor control are called asthma flare-ups, exacerbations or asthma attacks.

Three reasons why this is the first full episode in this Asthma Spotlight podcast are:

An asthma attack is a signal that something has gone seriously wrong and can sometimes result in hospitalisation or even death.

Most asthma attacks and asthma deaths can be prevented.

Asthma attacks are themselves risk factors for future attacks.

This episode will provide some key messages that may help you to avoid future attacks, and to prevent hospital admissions and even deaths due to asthma.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST Disclaimer: The opinions I express in this Asthma Spotlight PODCAST are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as possible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includesbut is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trailer for Asthma Spotlight

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 16:17:40 GMT

In this trailer I introduce a few key messages about asthma attacks. Future episodes will aim to help people with asthma understand and manage their disease and to prevent attacks.

Weekly Episodes will start in December.

Asthma Spotlight PODCAST Disclaimer: The opinions I express in this Asthma Spotlight PODCAST are not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed as, medical, health, or professional advice of any kind. The information contained in this podcast is an educational service that provides general health information about asthma and is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. This podcast contain my own opinions. I will make every effort to broadcast correct information but listeners must realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor may have a different way of doing things from another. I am simply presenting my views on asthma that will be as evidence based as possible I do not promote any asthma medications or devices. By listening to this podcast, which is intended for people with asthma and their caregivers, you agree not to use this podcast or blog as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, and if you are a health professional, this includesbut is not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog. You understand and agree that under no circumstances shall Dr Mark Levy any guests or contributors to the podcast or blog be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast or blog.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.