We all want to keep our children healthy; one health issue that some children may face is Asthma. Although Asthma can cause emergencies, there are ways for families to manage their children’s Asthma diagnosis. Here is some helpful information to share from CHEO
There are different types of Asthma and depending on the kind of Asthma your child has will alter how you treat/support your child.
Types of Asthma
1. Asthma-related to small airways (Children more likely to grow out of it)
Allergic Asthma (Children not as likely to grow out of it)
Know the possible triggers:
- Avoid smoking
- Get your family vaccinated against the flu
- Check air quality
- Reduce allergens
Types of Medications
There are two types of medications for Asthma, controller medications and reliever (rescue) medications.
https://www.cheo.on.ca/en/resources-and-support/resources/P5323E.pdf
Asthma Attacks and When to Go to the Emergency Room: Sometimes, mild asthma attacks can become more severe. Give your child their rescue inhaler and go to the ED or call 911 if you notice:
• blue skin
• severe cough or wheezing that returns within four hours of using the child’s reliever medication (salbutamol or Ventolin)
• inability to speak in complete sentences because of difficulty breathing
• becoming tired or sleepy because of difficulty breathing
• fainting because of an asthma attack
If your child has asthma, please remember it is essential to devise an action plan with their doctor to manage their symptoms best. See the CHEO Asthma action plan.
Look at the following book from CHEO to learn more about Asthma and how to support your child to manage their Asthma.
https://www.cheo.on.ca/en/resources-and-support/resources/Asthma-in-children-ENG.pdf
