Asthma Education: Understanding and Managing Symptoms

Asthma is a common condition that causes airways to become swollen and inflamed, making it hard to breathe. Asthma can be an unpredictable and sometimes scary condition. There is no cure for asthma, but you can manage and control your symptoms. GHC-SCW has resources to help with asthma education and care.

Respiratory Health and Asthma Education

• Meet with our respiratory health educator to learn more about asthma, asthma medications and asthma triggers.
• Learn how and when to properly use asthma medications.
• Create an asthma action plan to be more prepared when asthma symptoms occur.

Interested in meeting with an asthma educator? Please contact your Primary Care Provider and ask for a referral to health education.

Clinical Pharmacists

• Learn from a clinical pharmacist about how to use asthma medications.
• Clinical Pharmacists are an available resource for asthma and medication education.

Contact the GHC Capitol, Sauk Trails or Hatchery Hill clinic to connect with clinical pharmacy staff.

Outreach for Patients with Asthma

• The asthma control test (ACT) is a widely used tool that helps patients and their providers access asthma symptoms.
• The GHC Quality Department sends ACTs to patients who have not taken a test in one year or more.
• GHC nursing staff or the respiratory health educator will review your ACT score and make recommendations for care.

To take the asthma control test, please visit the American Lung Association’s website. If your score is 20 or less, this may mean your asthma is not as controlled as it could be. Please reach out to your Primary Care Provider to discuss next steps.

For comprehensive support in managing your asthma, GHC-SCW is here to help. From personal education sessions with our respiratory health educators to expert advice from our clinical pharmacists, we provide a range of resources designed to enhance your understanding and control of asthma. Don’t let asthma manage you—take control by scheduling a consultation or asthma control test today, and ensure you’re equipped with the tools and knowledge to lead a healthier life.