How to Prevent Asthma Attacks in Children
Asthma is a condition of the respiratory system that causes swelling of the airways and results in an asthma attack. Asthma is a common complaint in children, with boys more likely to suffer than girls according to a July 2010 Bupa website article. Controlling and managing a child's asthma decreases the frequency of attacks. There is no cure for asthma; however, preventing attacks is easier when following an asthma action plan.
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Instructions
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Consult with a pediatrician and devise a written asthma action plan for the child. The plan include a list of asthma medications and instructions of when and how the child should take them. Taking preventive measures can prevent an attack. Make a note in the child's asthma plan of all symptoms, detailing severity, when they happened and for how long they lasted.
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Write down and avoid the child's known asthma triggers. Other triggers require a process of elimination. Use anti-allergenic bedding for the child. Do not smoke or allow others to smoke around the child and prohibit pets from entering the child's bedroom. Some medications, cold, dry environments, exercise, stress and excessive emotion also can trigger attacks. Add newly discovered triggers to the list.
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Recognize asthma symptoms prior to an attack. Take preventive measures, such as administering quick-relief medication. Symptoms vary but often include shortness of breath, coughing and accelerated breathing. A persistent nighttime cough is a common symptom of childhood asthma. Obtain a peak flow meter, which is a device that monitors lung function. Charting peak readings helps indicate when an attack is likely to occur.
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Schedule regular reviews for the child and the pediatrician or doctor. The doctor reviews whether current medication is effective and prescribes any necessary alternative or additional medicine. Bring the asthma plan to the consultation, inform the doctor of any new triggers or symptoms since the last visit.
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Submit up-to-date copies of the plan to all caregivers involved with the child, including babysitters and all teachers. This enables others to be aware of potential triggers, types of medicine, when it needs to be taken and how to deal with an emergency. Include the child's address and contact numbers on the plan.
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Tips & Warnings
Immediately contact medical help in the event of a serious asthma attack. Hospitalization may be required for the asthmatic child.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Child image by ivan kmit from Fotolia.com
