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:

• A cough, wheeze, chest tightness/pressure/pain, shortness of breath, interrupted sleep.

Allergies can be seasonal or environmental and can cause:

• Sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, itchy eyes, skin rash
• Asthma may worsen with changes in seasons or exposure to triggers which can include:
• Allergens – dust, mold, pollen, pet dander
• Cigarette smoke, perfumes, cleaning products
• Respiratory infections, cold, influenza
• Exercise
• 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
• 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