Have you used 2 asthma medicines in the last 12 months?  

Have you needed 2 courses of oral steroids for asthma flare-ups? 

If the answer is yes, ask for an asthma review. 

That’s the message behind 2+2=REVIEW.

Why Does It Matter?

The 2+2=REVIEW message is aimed at people who are already using combination preventer treatment but continue to experience asthma flare-ups that require oral steroid tablets. 

Asthma flare-ups are important warning signs. Even when symptoms improve afterwards, people do not always return completely to their previous level of lung health. Repeated flare-ups may affect lung function over time and can also impact confidence, daily activities, work, study and wellbeing. 

Oral steroids can be an important treatment for severe asthma flare-ups. However, needing them repeatedly can greatly increase the risk of side effects. Repeated courses of oral steroid tablets (1000mg or four standard courses) increases the risk of both short-term and long-term side effects. This is one reason it is important to talk with your healthcare professional about ways to reduce future asthma flare-ups. 

What Is A Specialist

If your asthma appears severe or difficult to treat, you may need to seek a referral to a respiratory specialist. 

Respiratory specialists have additional expertise in diagnosing and treating complex asthma. They can assess whether other treatment approaches, including specialist therapies, may be suitable for you. 

Learn More About Severe Asthma

If you believe this your next step, ask your doctor for a referral.

What Should I Do First?

Talk to your doctor or asthma specialist and ask for an asthma review. 

You could say:

“I’ve had two courses of oral steroid tablets for asthma attacks. Can we review my asthma management plan and treatment?” 

During a review, your healthcare professional may check: 

  • How well your asthma is controlled 
  • Whether you’re using your inhaler correctly 
  • Your Asthma Action Plan 
  • Possible asthma triggers and other conditions that may affect asthma 
  • Your lung function 
  • Whether your current medicines are meeting your needs 
  • What type of asthma you have and whether other treatment options may be appropriate 
  • Whether referral to a respiratory specialist should be considered 

Need support? 

If you’re unsure about your next steps, call 1800 ASTHMA (1800 278 462) for free information and support from Asthma Australia. 

1800 Asthma, Book a call, Asthma Australia, Asthma Educators