What to do when a child has an asthma attack?

After a child is diagnosed with asthma, it is common for parents to experience increased anxiety or panic about their child's condition.

It is true that some cases of asthma can become very serious very quickly. However, the vast majority of children with asthma can keep their flare-ups under control with the right planning and precautions.

Here's what you, as a parent, can do to help your asthmatic child:

As a parent, there are several things you can do to support your asthmatic child and help manage their condition effectively:

• Learn about asthma: Educate yourself about asthma, its causes, triggers, symptoms, and treatment options. Understanding the condition will enable you to better assist your child and make informed decisions.
• Communicate with your child: Have open and honest conversations with your child about their asthma. Explain what asthma is, how it affects them, and encourage them to share their symptoms and concerns with you. Foster an environment where they feel comfortable discussing their condition.
• Create a safe environment: Identify and minimize triggers within your home that can worsen your child's asthma symptoms. Keep the living space clean, free of allergens, and smoke-free. Use allergy-proof bedding, regularly vacuum, and maintain proper ventilation.
• Encourage regular exercise: Physical activity is important for overall health, including for children with asthma. Work with your child's healthcare provider to develop an exercise plan that accommodates their condition. Ensure they have their quick-relief medication available before exercise and teach them to recognize and manage symptoms during physical activity.
• Support medication adherence: Help your child follow their prescribed medication regimen consistently. Teach them how to use inhalers or other devices correctly, and supervise younger children when necessary. Encourage independence as they grow older but continue to monitor and ensure medication compliance.
• Be prepared for emergencies: Have a well-stocked asthma emergency kit readily available at home and when traveling. The kit should include your child's prescribed medications, a spacer if needed, a peak flow meter if applicable, and a list of emergency contact numbers. Familiarize yourself with the steps to take during an asthma attack.
• Work with healthcare professionals: Establish a good relationship with your child's healthcare provider and communicate regularly with them. Attend scheduled appointments, discuss any concerns or changes in symptoms, and follow their guidance for managing your child's asthma effectively.
• Involve the school or daycare: If your child attends school or daycare, inform the staff about their asthma and provide them with the necessary information, such as their asthma action plan and emergency contacts. Collaborate with the school to ensure that they understand your child's needs and can support them appropriately.
• Encourage a healthy lifestyle: Promote a well-balanced diet, regular sleep patterns, and good hygiene practices for your child. A healthy lifestyle can help strengthen their immune system and reduce the risk of respiratory infections that can trigger asthma symptoms.
• Be a positive role model: Show your child that asthma doesn't have to limit their life. Be positive, supportive, and encouraging. Help them understand that with proper management, they can lead an active and fulfilling life despite their condition.

At UrgentWay's Pediatric Urgent Care Center, we provide treatment for asthma.