Chest

Asthma

Asthma is a long-term lung condition which can be controlled but cannot currently be cured. Sensitive airways is a key factor for people that experience Asthma. The airways of a person that has Asthma are more likely to react to triggers which cause the lining of the airway to become thicker and inflamed. When a person with asthma has an asthma flare-up, the muscles around the airway squeeze tight, the airways swell and become narrow and there is more mucus. These factors lead to a restriction in the airways and difficulty breathing.

The way an asthma flare-up presents can be varied. An asthma flare-up can come on slowly (over hours, days or even weeks) or very quickly (over minutes). A sudden or severe asthma flare-up is commonly called an asthma attack. Any person diagnosed with asthma can have an asthma flare-up.

A real positive, for most people, is that asthma can be well-controlled by following a daily management plan. When asthma is well-controlled, asthma symptoms and flare-ups are irregular. People with asthma can live very normal and active lives when managed correctly.

  • Family history
  • Gender and age
  • Allergies
  • Smoking (including secondhand exposure)
  • Air pollution
  • Obesity
  • Viral respiratory infections
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Wheezing
  • Breathlessness
  • A tight chest
  • Coughing
  • Increased heart rate
  • Increased rate of breathing
  • Drowsiness
  • Confusion
  • Dizziness/fainting

These are common symptoms of many conditions but are more likely to be caused by asthma if they:

  • Happen often and return regularly
  • Symptoms are worse in the early mornings and late at night
  • Seem to be triggered by allergens (such as animal fur or pollen) or exercise

Asthma can be managed by having an Asthma action plan and making some lifestyle changes including:

  • Create an Asthma action plan with your GP (medication and steps to take during an asthma attack).
  • Take your medication as prescribed by your Doctor
  • Learn how to use your inhaler correctly 
  • Doing regular physical activity with an individualised plan
  • Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke
  • Know your triggers
  • Avoid viral infections

The exercise physiologists at Fizzio for Life can assist in creating an exercise routine that is individualised to your capabilities and health goals while being mindful of any other health concerns you may have or you experience with exercise. It is never too late to start to work towards better health. 

Exercise Physiologists

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Bronchitis

Bronchitis is inflammation of the lungs which may follow a cold, or can be caused by chemical or physical irritants (eg. dust). Chronic bronchitis is classified as having a cough on most days for at least 3 months of the year, for two years in a row. Chronic bronchitis can cause you to be more susceptible to bacterial infection. It is also associated with other lung conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). 

  • Wheezing
  • Coughing
  • Fatigue
  • Tight chest 

Chronic bronchitis may require medical treatment and it is best that you discuss this with your general practitioner. It also puts you at risk of bacterial infection, in which case antibiotics may be required. 

Physiotherapy can assist with chest clearance if you have an acute respiratory infection associated with bronchitis. Treatment usually consists of education regarding breathing exercises to help you clear your airways. If you are having significant difficulty clearing your airways or you have other comorbidities which make it difficult to cough and clear, hands on treatment to help you clear your airways may be used. 

For an acute respiratory infection, physiotherapy treatment may involve 2-4 sessions over 1-2 weeks to assist you with coughing and clearing. 

Physiotherapists

Respiratory Infection

Respiratory infections are infections in the lungs caused by either a bacteria, virus or in rare cases fungus. Most commonly these infections will occur during or after having a cold or flu. Typically symptoms last 1-2 weeks, and may resolve on their own or may require antibiotics. 

  • Wheezing
  • Moist cough 
  • Shortness of breath 
  • Tight chest 
  • Congestion 

Some chest infections may not require treatment and may resolve on their own. Some may require antibiotic treatment in order to resolve. If you have a chest infection which is ongoing you should speak to your GP about any medical treatment which may be required. 

Physiotherapy can assist with chest clearance if you have an acute respiratory infection. Treatment usually consists of education regarding breathing exercises to help you clear your airways. If you are having significant difficulty clearing your airways or you have other comorbidities which make it difficult to cough and clear, hands on treatment to help you clear your airways may be used. 

For an acute respiratory infection, physiotherapy treatment may involve 2-4 sessions over 1-2 weeks to assist you with coughing and clearing. 

Physiotherapists

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