Doctors are urging Australians to prepare for an increase in seasonal asthma events such as Thunderstorm Asthma, which can strike quickly and affect those who don't suffer from regular Asthma.
The Australian Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting a wetter-than-average Spring, which will mean more grass pollens and other potential allergens in the air than is experienced in drier years. High winds can transport these tiny pollen particles long distances such as from rural areas which are rich in vegetation, into densely populated urban areas.
Bupa Clinical Director Dr Tony MacDermott said the start of Spring was a reminder for people who have Asthma or have a family history of the condition to make an appointment with their GP for an asthma review to ensure their prescriptions and asthma action plan are up to date.
"Our doctors at Bupa Medical Centres see increased levels of distress amongst asthmatics during Spring which highlights the fact that having a proactive conversation with your doctor can be the best medicine when it comes to seasonal health issues," Dr MacDermott said.
"Events like Thunderstorm Asthma can affect people who have never experienced asthma symptoms before. These individuals are less likely to have medication on hand, so it helps to know what medical resources are available to you before an incident strikes, to keep you safe and potentially out of hospital."
Having access to a doctor via Blua's Online Doctor service can be helpful in getting a consultation or prescriptions at any time without having to wait for an in-person appointment or visit a busy emergency department.
Through Blua, eligible Bupa Health Insurance customers can arrange to speak to a doctor 24/7 with 100% of the appointment fees covered for up to six appointments per person per year. More than 90% of Blua Online Doctors consultations are delivered via video, which suggests a growing comfort in high-tech healthcare amongst consumers.
"Our data tells us that more than a third of Blua doctor consultations occur outside normal business hours. Around 70 per cent of consultations are resolved in one call, with less than 2 per cent referred to an emergency department," Dr MacDermott said.
"When it comes to Asthma or any chronic health condition, the most important thing to have is a plan and the support you need to mitigate any risks and get the right care at the right time," Dr MacDermott said.
