DESPERATE MUM’S PLEA AFTER SON’S TRAGIC ASTHMA DEATH
Belinda Dowling, a devastated mother from Portsmouth, is calling for urgent action to raise awareness about the deadly disease that claimed the life of her 10-year-old son, Warren Dowling. It has been a year since the young boy collapsed and stopped breathing after an unexpected asthma attack.
Warren, described as a ‘cheeky’ and ‘happy’ boy, had been feeling ‘fine’ at school and while playing with his younger brother on a trampoline. However, tragedy struck when he asked for his inhaler after some outdoor playtime. Within moments, he turned blue and his breathing ceased, leaving his family in shock.
Despite being rushed to the hospital, medical professionals were unable to save Warren’s life. His mother recalls how Warren, who had managed his asthma relatively well, would occasionally suffer from severe attacks that required hospitalization. But this time, the attack came out of nowhere, leaving his loved ones devastated.
“Asthma care is in crisis,” warns Mrs. Dowling, who believes that not enough is being done to address the severity of the condition. She emphasizes that there has never been sufficient awareness about asthma and hopes that by sharing Warren’s story, others can be spared from experiencing the same heartbreak.
Asthma and Lung UK echoes Mrs. Dowling’s concerns, highlighting that little progress has been made since the National Review of Asthma Deaths in 2013. Shockingly, over 12,000 people in the UK have lost their lives to asthma attacks since the report’s publication, despite the fact that the majority of these deaths could have been prevented. Urgent action is needed to prevent further tragedies and ensure that asthma receives the attention it deserves.
WARREN’S MUM FIGHTS TO RAISE AWARENESS OF DEADLY ILLNESS
In a shocking revelation, it has been revealed that little progress has been made in improving asthma care, leaving the lives of many at risk. Asthma and Lung UK has called attention to the fact that four people still die every day due to this condition, despite recommendations made a decade ago to enhance care. Sarah MacFadyen, head of policy and external affairs for the organization, expressed her outrage, stating that it is scandalous that the UK continues to have one of the highest asthma death rates in Europe. Urgent action is needed to address this crisis and provide the necessary care and support for those affected.
With better care and support, individuals with asthma could effectively manage their condition, reducing the likelihood of life-threatening attacks. Additionally, investing in research and innovation to develop technology for self-management could have transformative effects, similar to what has been seen in diabetes care. These changes not only have the potential to save lives and improve quality of life but also alleviate the burden on healthcare services, including the NHS.
The government has acknowledged the need for improvement in services for chronic conditions like asthma. They have taken steps to establish a lung health checks program and dedicated clinical networks to enhance lung services across the country. Furthermore, chronic respiratory diseases, including asthma, will be a focus in the forthcoming Major Conditions Strategy, ensuring that patient-centered care is prioritized.
In a separate heartbreaking case, a mother is campaigning for free inhalers in England after her son tragically passed away following an asthma attack. This serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the accessibility and affordability of vital asthma medications.
WHAT TO DO DURING AN ASTHMA ATTACK
The St John Ambulance charity has provided valuable advice on how to respond when someone experiences an asthma attack. It is crucial to be aware of the following symptoms:
– Difficulty breathing
– Wheezing and coughing
– Tightness in the chest, often described as a constricting band
– Distress and anxiety
– Difficulty speaking, characterized by short sentences and whispering
– Signs of hypoxia, such as a bluish tinge to the lips, earlobes, and nailbeds
– Extreme exhaustion during severe attacks
Being knowledgeable about these symptoms and taking appropriate action can make a significant difference in saving lives during asthma attacks.
Reassure them and ask them to take their usual dose of their inhaler, which is typically blue. Advise them to breathe slowly and deeply.
Sit them down in a comfortable position.
A mild attack usually eases after a few minutes. However, if it doesn’t, they may be experiencing a severe attack. Instruct them to take a puff every 30 to 60 seconds until they have taken 10 puffs. Offer assistance with their inhaler if needed.
If the attack is severe and they are deteriorating, becoming exhausted, or if this is their first attack, call 999 or 112 for emergency help.
Monitor their breathing and level of response. If the ambulance has not arrived within 15 minutes, repeat step 3. If they become unresponsive at any point, be prepared to give CPR.
If the symptoms improve and there is no need to call 999, advise them to schedule an urgent same-day appointment with their GP or asthma nurse.
