The National Asthma Council Australia’s Sensitive Choice program is committed to helping people live better with asthma and allergies. Our blue butterfly trademark helps people find products and services that are asthma and allergy friendly.

About asthma and allergies

Asthma is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases in Australia, affecting 1 in 9 Australians (2.8 million people, including children). It is the leading cause of total disease burden in children aged 1-9 years old. One in 5 Australians have allergies, and up to 80% of people with asthma also have allergic rhinitis, also known as ‘hay fever’.

Signs and symptoms of asthma

The most common symptoms of asthma include:

• wheezing – a high-pitched whistling noise when your child is breathing
• shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• chest tightness or pain
• coughing.

Signs and symptoms of allergies

The most common symptoms of an allergic reaction include:

• itchy, watery eyes
• runny nose
• sneezing
• coughing
• swelling of the lips, face or eyes
• skin irritation (itching, redness, hives, swelling).

Helping you manage asthma and allergies

Managing little ones with asthma and allergies can be difficult. Having a trusted range of products and services that can alleviate sensitivities makes a substantial difference to the lives of many Australians. This is where Sensitive Choice comes in.

Only products that have passed a stringent application process, rigorous review and have proven their potential to benefit people with asthma and allergies, can be Sensitive Choice approved.

All product submissions for Sensitive Choice approval undergo independent testing and are reviewed by a panel of experts, including experts like an allergist, chemical engineer, immunologist, GP and pharmacist.  

Products that are Sensitive Choice approved can help minimise the impacts of common asthma and allergy triggers in your home. Even for households without these extra sensitivities, using a product that has our Sensitive Choice approval can help you create a healthier, safer environment. 

Common allergens and triggers

It is important to know your child’s or your own triggers so you can try to prevent and mitigate their impacts in your home. Some of the most common triggers for asthma and allergies include:

• dust mites
• pollen
• mould
• smoke
• pets
• volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Eliminating the presence of allergens that trigger symptoms in your family can lead to better management of their asthma and allergies. Using products that are Sensitive Choice approved as asthma and allergy friendly can also help with removing allergens from the home environment.

Creating a healthy home can help you and your family breathe cleaner, fresher air and potentially reduce allergic reactions or allergy-related asthma attacks.

Find the blue butterfly at the PBC Expo!

Sensitive Choice will be exhibiting at the October Melbourne Home Show! Join us at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, 5-6 October 2024. Look for the Sensitive Choice blue butterfly to find the right products for you and your family.

Visit our stand E16 for asthma and allergy resources, competition prizes, and information.

Partners joining us the stand with their Sensitive Choice approved products include:

• Daikin, showcasing their split system air conditioners and air purifiers
• FESS, featuring nasal sprays and eye wipes
• Tontine, displaying pillows and quilts.

Get 50% OFF your event tickets when you use our unique code G6Z4JV!

More information about understanding asthma

Sensitive Choice has collaborated with Dr Joel Ten, GP and spokesperson for the National Asthma Council Australia, to create a short video series to help people better understand asthma.

 Each 2-minute video briefly explains:

• What does asthma look like? Understanding the physical changes to the airways during an asthma attack.
• What does asthma feel like? Understanding asthma symptoms.
• What is the difference between asthma relievers and asthma preventers?

Learn more about our approved partners and asthma resources.