In this episode of The Good GP, Dr Ramya Raman is joined by Dr Stephen Oo, a paediatric respiratory physician from Perth Children’s Hospital, Fiona Stanley Hospital, and Respiratory Care WA. They discuss the recent updates to the Australian Asthma Handbook and the implications for asthma management across all age groups in general practice.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Asthma Guideline Changes:
• Shift from SABA (salbutamol) relievers to Anti-Inflammatory Reliever (AIR) therapy (inhaled corticosteroid + formoterol) for adults and adolescents.
• Focus on treating airway inflammation rather than just symptoms.
• Adults and Adolescents:
• Tailor preventative therapy based on symptom severity and exacerbation history.
• AIR therapy suitable for patients with poor adherence or very mild symptoms.
• Discusses risks of repeated oral steroid use, including osteoporosis.
• School-aged Children (6–12 Years):
• Limited evidence for AIR/SMART therapy in this age group.
• Most children should continue with regular low-dose inhaled corticosteroids.
• Challenges with lung function tests and alternative regimens.
• Children Under 6 Years:
• Diagnosis is challenging; trial of inhaled steroid may clarify diagnosis.
• Consider differential diagnoses such as protracted bacterial bronchitis.
• Monitor response to therapy for further guidance.
• Patient Education and Adherence:
• Use simple analogies to explain airway inflammation and the need for preventer therapy.
• Stress importance of regular medication use and clear communication.

Updating asthma management across all age groups and strategies for improving patient education in general practice.

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