PATIENTS WITH ASTHMA will be looking for practical advice and support, so let them know about these online resources. These sites can provide easy-to-read fact sheets and information about support groups available in their area. Many of these sites also offer patient education resources for healthcare professionals.

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

http://www.aaaai.org

Patients can use this website to research their symptoms, find an immunologist, and get involved in advocacy efforts. Featuring the latest research, an A-to-Z dictionary, and even a section just for kids, this is a one-stop shop for patients and their families.

Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America

http://www.aafa.org

Detailed education, advocacy, and research information is featured on this comprehensive site that covers both asthma and allergies. An online community, support groups, and educational resources are also provided. Visitors can subscribe to print and online newsletters and read popular blog posts about relevant topics.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

http://www.cdc.gov/asthma

Offering basic information on asthma, this site is a great place to start for patients who have just been diagnosed with asthma. Patients can learn more about signs and symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options. Visitors can also access free podcasts and videos and download helpful brochures. A section for children provides kid-friendly educational websites, podcasts, brochures, and games.

Global Initiative for Asthma

http://www.ginasthma.org

On this site, nurses can find detailed evidence-based guidelines for asthma management. Several publications and reports can be downloaded free of charge so nurses can share them with patients. The site has a separate section for patients and advocacy groups, and also offers information about World Asthma Day, which this organization sponsors annually.