Asthma Society of Ireland Press Release
September 9, 2009
Asthma Society of Ireland Urges Students To Prepare For College EnvironmentDublin 10th September 2009
September will represent a major milestone in the lives of approximately 43,000 students who are starting college for the first time this term1. For many, starting college is the first time that they will move out of their family home and fend for themselves, including the management of their health. The Asthma Society of Ireland would like to remind students with asthma that correct medical management of their condition is critically important and must not be forgotten during this time. Approximately 470,000 people have asthma in Ireland and at least one person dies from asthma every week in Ireland.
The newfound freedom and the often less than healthy aspects of student life can have a negative impact on students with asthma. Some of these triggers may include living with smokers, taking up smoking, poor dietary habits, the use of recreational drugs and excessive alcohol intake. Starting college and/or moving out of home can all lead to increased stress which can also act as an asthma trigger. These ‘triggers’ are in addition to environmental factors such as dust mites, cleaning solutions and other irritants which can be found in your new home or college accommodation.
Students with asthma are also advised to:
- Carry an Asthma Attack Card with you at all times.
- Register with the college health centre, let them know you have asthma and ask who can be contacted in case of an emergency.
- Ensure you take your preventer routinely and carry your reliever inhaler at all times.
- If living on campus, ensure your roommates are aware of your condition and ensure that the accommodation is non-smoking.
- If sensitive to dust mites, bring your own pillows, allergy-proof covers and a mattress cover.
- Pay close attention to the recommendations issued by the HSE and the Asthma Society of Ireland in relation to swine flu and be vigilant for updates regarding possible vaccination guidelines in the coming months.
- Good hygiene is the first line of defence against any type of cold or flu - make sure you wash your hands frequently, especially after coughing or sneezing.
Dr Pat Manning, Chairperson, Medical Committee, Asthma Society of Ireland said “Going to college and living away from home for the first time is exciting but it can also be a stressful process which can trigger asthma symptoms. It is an important time in the life of people with asthma as they have to learn to become more independent and manage their condition on their own. It is imperative to be aware of the potential environmental triggers in their new surroundings and ensure that their asthma is controlled. Control is the key to living well with asthma and there is no reason why people with asthma should not have a healthy and fun start to college life. Ask your doctor or practice nurse about developing a personal asthma action plan or contact the Asthma Society of Ireland should you have any queries on 1850 44 54 64 or email: info@asthmasociety.ie”
The Asthma Society of Ireland website offers users a wide range of information on asthma including advice on how best to manage asthma during exam times for students. A new text alert service is now available to keep up to date on the latest news and information on asthma – to sign up for this service visit the website at www.asthmasociety.ie. For further information visit www.asthmasociety.ie or call 1850 44 54 64
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