Understanding asthma care for your child
It can be a struggle to stay on top of your child’s asthma medication. The helpful tips and strategies in this article will make it a little easier. You can also visit the American Lung Association for more information.
Getting an asthma diagnosis for your child can be overwhelming. But having a real sense of the basics and clear communication with your child’s doctor will make it much easier.
What is asthma?
Asthma is the most common chronic disease in children. It is an inflammation of the lungs and airways triggered by allergens, viruses, smoke, or exercise. Narrowed airways can cause symptoms that include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
How are symptoms managed?
Although asthma symptoms are serious, you can manage the condition with daily controller medications and rescue inhalers when flare-ups take place.
When does asthma develop?
It’s possible to develop asthma at any age. But it usually shows up by the time a child reaches age 5.
What are the best ways for me to handle my child’s asthma medications?
Communication and understanding are the best ways to ensure success with asthma medications. Here’s what to keep in mind.
Make sure you and your child understand. If you or your child have any questions about their medication, check in with your pediatrician. It’s important to have a clear understanding of the following:
What the medication does
Why it’s important
What to do if your child misses a dose
Potential side effects
If your child has an inhaler, make sure they always have it with them. Remind them that an inhaler can help prevent a trip to the emergency room.
If you have concerns about whether your child is ready to carry an inhaler, it’s best to talk to your pediatrician. You can also use the American Lung Association’s Student Readiness Assessment Tool.
Discuss with your pediatrician. Ask your pediatrician to answer any questions you or your child have.
Communicate with your school nurse. Keep your child’s school nurse informed so they can support your child during the school day. Have your child's pediatrician fill out an “asthma action plan” for the school nurse, which includes information about your child’s inhaler or other asthma medication. This way, the school knows what to do when there is a problem.
Talk to the staff at your child’s school. In addition to communicating with your school nurse, it’s a good idea to keep your child’s teachers informed of an asthma diagnosis as well. They should have access to your child’s rescue medication.
Additional resources for kids
The American Lung Association is a helpful resource for anyone who struggles with asthma, including kids. The organization’s Open Airways for Schools program gives kids ages 8 to 11 tools for learning how to manage their asthma. The program provides information about medication management and how to recognize asthma triggers.
For kids ages 11 to 16, the Kickin’ Asthma program offers information about the following:
Understanding warning signs
Recognizing triggers
Knowing how to properly use medication
Kids take a four-part course where they learn from an American Lung Association–trained facilitator.
Bottom line: When kids understand how to use their medications, they’re better equipped to cope with asthma. And you’ll feel better knowing that your child knows what to do.
