Don’t Just Cope With Asthma. Control It!

May is National Asthma & Allergy Awareness Month

 At the Youth Clinic, our Pediatricians and Pediatric Physician Assistants take treating asthma seriously and don’t just want children to cope with asthma, they want to control it. We are here to support your child in learning to manage their symptoms allowing for an active, healthy life. Learn more about asthma, it’s symptoms, triggers and how to maintain control of asthma below.

Facts

• Asthma is a chronic lung disease that inflames and narrows the airways.
• 1 in 10 children have asthma
• 57% of children are prone to asthma attacks
• 80 – 90 % of children with asthma have allergies that trigger it.

Symptoms

Can occur daily, weekly or infrequently and include:

• Cough, wheeze, chest tightness/pressure/pain, shortness of breath, interrupted sleep
• Allergy can be seasonal or environmental in cause:
• Sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, itchy eyes, skin rash

Asthma may worsen with changes in seasons or exposure to triggers

Triggers include: 

1. Allergens – dust, mold, pollen, pet dander
2. Cigarette smoke, perfumes, cleaning products
3. Respiratory infections, cold, influenza
4. Exercise
5. Extreme changes in temperature

How to manage your triggers and maintain good control of your asthma

• Make sure to use your spacer with each inhaler. Watch: How to Use a Metered Dose Inhaler with a Spacer and a Mask
• If directed by your primary care provider, start allergy medication before allergies flare (Zyrtec, Claritin)
• Take your controller medications as directed
• Use nasal rinses regularly
• Make sure all asthma medications are current and not expired
• Follow your personalized Asthma Action Plan

Families who have a child with asthma should schedule medication checks in addition to well visit appointments and consult with their pediatrician.

At The Youth Clinic, we acknowledge that each child’s asthma experience is unique. We work closely with patients and their families to create tailored treatment plans that empower children to effectively manage their symptoms and lead active, fulfilling lives.

Helpful Asthma Resources

• Living with Asthma
• Athletes & Asthma
• Healthy Homes: Air Quality