Asthma is a long-term respiratory condition that affects millions of people around the world, including many in Australia. Characterised by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, asthma can cause wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing.
While many people manage their asthma with medications and an action plan, there are times when symptoms may worsen or become difficult to control. Knowing when to see a GP can help prevent serious complications and ensure your condition remains well-managed.
This article explains the key signs that suggest you should book an appointment with your GP and when urgent or emergency care may be required.
When Your Asthma Symptoms Require a GP Visit
Even if you’ve had asthma for years and feel comfortable managing it, it’s important not to ignore changes in your symptoms or triggers. The following signs suggest your asthma may be worsening or not as well-controlled as it should be.
1. Persistent Coughing or Wheezing
If you have a cough that lingers for more than a few days or wheezing that gets worse over time particularly at night or early in the morning, this could signal poor asthma control. Even if the symptoms seem mild, they can indicate airway inflammation that may need medical attention.
2. Increased Shortness of Breath
Finding it hard to catch your breath during normal activities such as walking, climbing stairs or light exercise is a red flag. If you notice you’re avoiding certain activities due to breathlessness, speak to your GP to reassess your treatment plan.
3. Chest Tightness or Discomfort
A feeling of pressure, heaviness or tightness in the chest can be a sign that your airways are inflamed and narrowing. This symptom is often underestimated but should never be ignored, especially if it occurs frequently or is disrupting sleep.
4. Frequent Use of Reliever Inhalers
Using your reliever (short-acting bronchodilator) more than twice a week could be a sign that your asthma is not under control. Your GP can review your current medication plan and consider adjusting your preventer treatment if needed.
5. Disrupted Sleep
Waking up in the night due to coughing, wheezing or shortness of breath is a common indicator that your asthma may be flaring up. Regular sleep disturbance due to asthma should prompt a visit to your doctor for further evaluation.
6. Decreased Tolerance for Exercise
If your exercise capacity has reduced or you’re experiencing symptoms during or after physical activity, your asthma may not be adequately managed. This is especially important for children, teens and active adults.
Signs of a Severe Asthma Flare-Up: When to Seek Emergency Care
Asthma flare-ups or attacks can become dangerous without prompt treatment. The following symptoms require urgent assessment and potentially emergency care:
Severe Shortness of Breath
If you’re gasping for air, unable to speak in full sentences, or struggling to breathe even while sitting still, this is a medical emergency. You may need oxygen support and immediate bronchodilator treatment.
Blue Lips or Fingernails
A bluish colour around the lips or fingertips indicates a drop in oxygen levels in the blood (cyanosis) and requires urgent medical help.
No Relief After Using a Reliever Inhaler
If you’ve used your reliever medication (e.g., Ventolin) but your symptoms don’t improve within 15–20 minutes, or worsen afterward, call emergency services. Delayed treatment in this scenario can be life-threatening.
Rapid Breathing and Chest Retractions
Very fast breathing, flaring of the nostrils, and visible sucking in of the skin between the ribs or around the neck (known as chest retractions) are signs of significant respiratory distress.
If any of these symptoms occur, call (000) immediately or go to your nearest emergency department.
How Your GP Can Support Long-Term Asthma Management
Seeing a GP about your asthma is not just for emergencies. A general practitioner can provide comprehensive care to help you manage asthma effectively on a long-term basis. Your GP can:
- Confirm your asthma diagnosis using lung function tests such as spirometry
- Assess your current medication and inhaler technique
- Identify your asthma triggers (e.g., allergens, exercise, cold air, respiratory infections)
- Develop or update your asthma action plan – a written guide on how to manage symptoms and what to do if they worsen
- Refer you to a respiratory specialist if your asthma is not responding to standard treatments
Regular asthma reviews with your GP (every 6–12 months or sooner if needed) help ensure your condition remains stable and controlled.
Asthma Triggers in the Noosa Region
If you live in or around the Noosa region, it’s worth being mindful of seasonal and environmental factors that can affect asthma. These include:
- Pollen counts – Higher in spring and early summer, often triggering allergic asthma
- Bushfire smoke – Air pollution from nearby fires can irritate the airways
- Humidity and mould – Coastal climates may increase exposure to moisture and indoor mould spores, which can worsen symptoms
- Respiratory viruses – Winter months (like June) often bring colds and flu, which can trigger asthma attacks
Speak with your GP about local asthma triggers and how to protect yourself year-round. You may benefit from flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, particularly if you have moderate to severe asthma.
Don’t Ignore Changes in Your Asthma Symptoms
Asthma is a treatable condition, but it requires regular monitoring and appropriate medical care. If you’re noticing changes in your symptoms, relying more on your reliever inhaler, or avoiding activities due to breathlessness, it’s time to book a GP appointment. Early medical intervention helps reduce the risk of severe attacks, hospitalisations, and long-term damage. Don’t wait, speak with your GP to keep your asthma under control and support your ongoing respiratory health.
Need an asthma review or help managing your symptoms?
Book an appointment today at Tewantin Medical Centre to take the next step in protecting your health.
