It can affect anyone of any age, and its symptoms can often be misinterpreted as signs of being unfit or ageing.
That’s why Deniliquin Local Health Advisory is encouraging people to attend its next ‘Lifting Health Outcomes’ talk on lung health.
It will be hosted Wednesday, July 3, and Murrumbidgee Local Health District respiratory and heart failure clinical nurse specialist Di Gardiner will be guest speaker.
“Almost one in three Australians has a lung disease, which is our nation’s second leading cause of death,” Deniliquin LHAC chair Lynda Barclay said.
“Di has been working in this space for many years and we are very fortunate to have someone with her expertise in our community.
“Our July talk will cover factors that can increase your risk of lung disease, and what the early warning signs of lung disease may look like.
“Symptoms of lung disease can creep up slowly and people often put the symptoms down to ageing or lack of fitness. This can delay people seeking help – rather they may adjust their daily activities to reduce their symptoms.
“Seeking medical assistance early and getting appropriate treatment can slow disease progression and minimise complications.”
Common symptoms of lung disease can include breathlessness, a persistent cough, weight loss, fatigue, wheeze, chest infections, mucus production, coughing up blood, or chronic chest pain.
If you are experiencing these symptoms and your doctor is not aware of them, book an appointment with your GP as soon as possible.
This talk will also cover various treatment and management strategies for those living with lung disease, and the supports that are available in Deniliquin.
As always the talk will conclude with time for questions, and morning tea provided by the Naponda Hospital Auxiliary.
Lung disease is one of 12 health topics selected as the focus of the Lifting Health Outcomes banner and education campaign.
“Our focus with this year’s campaign is to increase our community’s understanding of many types of disease, and to seek medical treatment promptly for appropriate diagnosis and care,” Mrs Barclay said.
“When you see the health banners around town, you can scan the tinyurl code on them to be taken directly to a screening questionnaire for that condition.”
The lung disease talk will be hosted at the Deniliquin Community Health Centre, which is located behind the hospital in Macauley St (opposite Navorina Aged Care).
RSVPs are not essential but are recommended for catering purposes. Send your name and contact details to 0439 373 764.
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