Managing a Child's Asthma
Steps to take at home.
Asthma should not necessarily restrict the child's ability to exercise, run, or play. It is important to encourage a child to participate in enjoyable activities without going beyond physical limits. To do this, the child and adults must have a full understanding of the condition and the many factors that contribute to attacks as well as of what to do when an attack occurs.
A home environment that reduces the chances of the child having an asthma attack can be created. Here are some suggestions:
~Do not allow smoking in the home. Smoke is an irritant that can trigger an asthma attack.
~Dander and saliva from cats and dogs may cause an attack. Other pets, such as fish, can be a good alternative.
~Use a damp cloth for household dusting so irritants do not become airborne.
~An air-conditioned environment is especially helpful on days when pollen counts are high. Even a window unit in the child's bedroom will help.
~Try to make the home as "stress free" as possible. Excitement, anxiety, or stress can trigger an episode.
~Make sure the child knows where medications are stored and how they are to be taken. If dosing regimen seems confusing, develope a chart that the child can understand. (Please make sure that you assist your younger child/children if they need the help.)
~Be aware of the child's food allergies. Avoid having those foods in the home.
~In the bedroom, use pillows made of a synthetic fabric, washable cotton, or synthetic blankets, and allergen-proof covers for mattresses.
~Prevent dust from collecting in the child's bedroom by removing upholstered furniture, heavy draperies, and knickknacks.
~Avoid fabric toys. Wood, plastic, or metal toys are less likely to collect and retain allergens.
~Keep the home germ free. Tell the child to avoid direct contact with someone who is sick and encourage frequent hand washing to prevent the spread of germs.
Despite all of these preventive measures, a child may still suffer an asthma attack. If this does occur, here are some ways to manage an attack at home:
~Be aware of the child's warning signs so you can start treatment early.
~Reduce exposure to whatever may; be causing the asthma episodes. If you can, remove the allergen or irritant.
~Follow the doctor's orders regarding the dose and frequency of the child's medicine.
~Try to stay calm.
~Encourage the child to rest so you can observe whether the treatment is working.
~Carefully observe the child's condition. If you have a peak flow meter, check the child's peak flow rate 5 to 10 minutes after each treatment to see if air flow is improving.
~If you need help, call a friend, family member, or neighbor.
~Contact the doctor if necessary.
Knowing when to seek medical care.
If you feel that the child's condition is not improving, you should seek medical care. Here are some ways to determine if emergency treatment is needed:
~Wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath get worse even after medication has had time to work.
~Signs indicate difficulty with breathing. The child may seem to struggle for breath, hunch over, or suck in chest and neck muscles with each attempt to breathe.
~Peak flow rate declines or stays the same after using bronchodilators.
~The child has trouble doing any activity.
~If lips or fingernails turn gray or blue, seek emergency medical treatment immediately.
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This information was provided by Glaxo, Inc.1995
Beginning Facts about Asthma
Facts about Asthma page 2
Facts about Asthma page 3
Facts about Asthma page 4
Nocturnal Asthma
Managing your child's Asthma
Peak flow meters
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