Putting the Spotlight on Digital Downloads to Help Support Patients with Respiratory Allergy

Written by Holly Shaw, Nurse Advisor at Allergy UK

Evidence shows that fewer than half of the information shared with patients during consultations is remembered. Allergy UK offers many free-to-download resources which can help support patient consultations by enhancing patient understanding and promoting self-management, as well as facilitating better understanding and shared decision-making between clinicians and patients.

There are three significant benefits of using written information to support allergic condition management:

  1.  1. Improved understanding – Offering written information to patients allows them to consume the information after the consultation in their own time and can complement advice given verbally, also enabling clinicians to make efficient use of their time.
  2.  Improved adherence to management plans – Patients who understand their condition and treatment plan are more likely to adhere to the recommendations detailed in their own/their child’s plan of care. Written information plans and resources are key to streamlining key points discussed.
  3.  Enhanced patient empowerment – By providing access to evidence-based sources of information we can help patients feel more confident in managing their condition. This is specifically important in allergy as many allergic conditions are chronic in nature.

Asthma
This factsheet offers information on asthmatic symptoms to look out for and explains the different types of treatment for asthma. 

Hay fever and Allergic Rhinitis 
An overview of the causes, symptoms, triggers and treatments for hay fever and allergic rhinitis. 

Pollen Food Syndrome 
Pollen Food Syndrome presents with immediate reactions to raw/uncooked plant foods which contain proteins similar to pollen allergens. 

Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy usually involves the administration of increasing doses of allergen extracts over a set period and given to patients by injection or drops/ tablets under the tongue (sublingual).   

Eczema
Eczema, also called atopic eczema or atopic dermatitis is a chronic dry skin condition, affecting around 1 in 10 adults in the UK. There is currently no cure but avoiding triggers and having an agreed management plan, alongside a good skincare regime will help manage the condition. 

Weed Pollen
Grass and tree pollens aren’t the only cause of hay fever and allergic asthma symptoms – weeds are also common culprits.