When I look at the vast array of information available for people with asthma or COPD the mind boggles. Where do I start? What is relevant to me? What is fact or fiction?
I’ve spent a lot of time reading and researching what works and one must-read for people with asthma and allergies is National Asthma Council Australia’s Sensitive Choice website.
How does it work?
The Sensitive Choice program brings together a range of useful information on an easy-to-use website featuring asthma and allergy aware products and services approved by the program, as well as useful information on how to better manage your asthma and allergies.
Sensitive Choice approved products and services
National Asthma Council Australia takes submissions that are assessed to see if the products may be a better choice for people with asthma and/or allergies. These submissions are assessed based in potential benefit and the best evidence by an independent Product Advisory Panel, including a respiratory physician, allergist, GP, pharmacist, industrial chemist and engineer. Approved products and services range from household cleaners and cleaning services to carpets, paints, bedding products and more.
Part of good asthma and allergy management is knowing your triggers, and the Sensitive Choice site can help you find the best products to avoid those triggers and make informed decisions before purchasing. I have used Sensitive Choice approved bedding products and found them to be quality products
Informative
The Living with asthma and allergies section of the site has a wealth of information from tips on avoiding asthma and allergy triggers to suggestions on how to utilise different products around the home like air purifiers.
Sensitive Choice’s use of social media (on Facebook, Twitter and Google+) gives you up-to-date information on the latest asthma and allergy news, as well as giving you the opportunity to comment and share your own experiences. I’ve found engaging people on asthma topics is a useful way to discover what other people with asthma have found works for them.
Summary
Sensitive Choice offers great information on a range of asthma and allergy topics and allergy aware products and services with a user-friendly website. As the program expands I’d love to see some more information on exercise as it’s an important part of staying healthy with asthma.