Tips for managing asthma from AboutKidsHealth
It’s finally May, which means warmer weather and outside activities. Unfortunately, spring also means an increase in allergens such as pollen and mould. If your child suffers from asthma, this is the time when their symptoms can be triggered.
To mark Asthma Awareness Month, AboutKidsHealth has some timely tips on how to manage asthma triggers and symptoms.
Asthma triggers and how to avoid them
Many irritants can trigger asthma symptoms in a child.
Some of the most common irritants include:
- air pollution
- pollen
- cigarette smoke
- pet dander
- cold air
- wood and oil smoke
- chemical fumes or strong odours.
If your child suffers from asthma, this is the time when their symptoms can be triggered.
Air pollution and pollen
When allergen counts are high or air quality is poor, try to limit the amount of time your child spends outside. At home, shut windows and doors and make sure your home is free of moulds and dust. If your child needs to go out, make sure they shower and put on clean clothes when they come home.
Cigarette smoke
Avoid cigarette smoke when you are out and don’t let anyone smoke in your home or in the car. Cigarette smoke can also stay on clothes; if a person who has been near cigarette smoke is close to your child, it could make their asthma worse.
Pet dander
If your child has an allergy to pet dander, you may need to consider finding a new home for pets or finding a pet that is hypoallergenic (does not trigger an allergic reaction). When outside the home, do not let your child touch any pets. If visiting friends with pets, ask if they can keep them away from your child.
Asthma action plan
An asthma action plan is an important tool for managing your child’s asthma. A typical plan includes making sure that your child has their medication with them at all times and knowing what to do in case of an attack. You should discuss an asthma action plan with your child’s doctor.
Warning signs of worsening asthma
Your child may display a few signs that their asthma is getting worse.
These include:
- persistent coughing
- wheezing
- cold symptoms (runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat)
- becoming tired soon after starting to play or exercise
- telling you that they are tired or their chest hurts
- moodiness.
Your child will not need to see a doctor right away if they have these symptoms, but you should still monitor them, give them any medication they need and follow your asthma action plan.
When to see a doctor for asthma symptoms
See a doctor right away if:
your child cannot stop coughing or throwing up
your child cannot speak
your child feels unusually sleepy or has trouble waking up
your child’s skin or lips appear blue
your child’s skin sucks in on the neck or chest as they breathe.
For more information about asthma, check out the AboutKidsHealth Asthma Resource Centre.
