Someone in the UK has an asthma attack every 10 seconds and three people die of asthma related conditions every day. Two thirds of these deaths could be prevented.
The World Health Organization estimates that 300 million people suffer from asthma worldwide and it’s the most common chronic disease among children.
Asthma symptoms
The symptoms of asthma include:
- shortness of breath
- wheezing
- coughing
- tightness in the chest
- chest pain or pressure
Asthma causes
The causes of asthma are not known, but it is known that certain things can make the condition worse, including:
- chemicals
- the common cold
- allergies
- smoke
- air pollution
- dust
- heightened emotions including stress, anger and fear
- cold air
- physical activity – although this should not be avoided
Who is affected and how?
Asthma often runs in families. Those at higher risk are people who have allergies or are under the age of 16.
People with asthma have very sensitive airways that can become inflamed. The muscles around their airways then tighten making them narrower. A build-up of mucus can then result in airways becoming narrower still. This means that it is harder to get air in and out of the lungs.
There is no known cure for asthma. All that can be done is to try to manage and control it by taking medications, avoiding triggers, being reviewed regularly by doctors and, most importantly, education.
You can find more information about asthma on Global Initiative for Asthma website.
How can Graysons help?
Petra Heath
Here at Graysons we recognise the effect that a delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis of asthma can have. We understand the importance of compensation to you as it can greatly improve quality of life for you and your family and provide the care and security that is needed.
If you would like to talk to a member of our specialist team then please contact us for a confidential and free discussion today.
You can find out more about making a medical negligence claim on our web pages.
Richard Clarke, a legal executive in Graysons’ personal injury department is an asthma sufferer and has previously taken part in sponsored runs to raise money for asthma and other charities.
By Petra Heath, medical negligence solicitor.
