THOUSANDS of Bolton asthmatics could be risking a life-threatening attack because they are taking non-paracetamol painkillers which they are allergic to.

A new survey shows that one in five asthmatics are taking these painkillers, and medical experts have now called for action to educate sufferers.

In Bolton, there are 16,200 people suffering from asthma and an alarming 3,240 are ignoring medical advice by taking popular over-the-counter medicines such as aspirin or ibuprofen.

Ironically, people in Bolton are putting themselves at risk of a major asthma attack, which can be life-threatening, because sufferers are taking painkillers to cope with daytime symptoms they experience due to sleep deprivation.

This new national research, conducted by Sleep Matters, shows that 80 per cent have sleep disturbance, with more than 50 per cent waking up twice or more in the night.

The research also recorded a wide range of daytime symptoms. Around 90 per cent of those surveyed suffer general tiredness, and 50 per cent suffer headaches or poor concentration as well as muscular aches and pains.

And half of those surveyed take pain relief to cope with these daytime symptoms.

Of these, a worrying 49 per cent take inappropriate medication. Many asthmatics have called for more advice and written information.

Lead consultant at the Royal Bolton Hospital, Dr Brian Bradley, said it had been well researched that asthmatics can suffer allergic reactions to non-paracetamol products.

But he urged Bolton people not to panic, saying that not all asthmatics are allergic.

Dr Bradley said: "All asthmatics are told about the possible allergic reaction to aspirin or ibuprofen. The risk varies from patient to patient but there should be no undue cause for alarm."