Asthma is a disease of the airways of the lungs that affects both children and adults. During an asthma attack, the bronchioles constrict, which leads to wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. An asthma attack can quickly develop into a medical emergency; therefore prompt medical attention for a child affected is very important. Asthma has many effects on school-age children for which parents and school staff should be prepared.
Statistics
There are 7.4 million children in the United States affected by asthma, which is almost 10 percent of all the nation's children, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is a leading chronic disease in children, disproportionately affecting non-Hispanic black and Puerto Rican children as compared to non-Hispanic white children.
Medical Care
Asthma necessitates regular medical care, therefore children need to be evaluated by their doctor regularly and during periods of illness to make sure that the asthma is being well-controlled. Children need to undergo specific tests, and may need to be on medicine regularly to control the asthma and prevent asthma attacks. In addition, sometimes an asthmatic episode can necessitate an emergency room visit.
Children with Asthma and Triggers
Asthma can be triggered by different allergens, chemicals and environmental pollutants. Triggers can precipitate an asthma attack. It is important for parents, school teachers and other caretakers to know what allergens and triggers a child is susceptible to in order to prevent exposure to them. Some examples of triggers include perfume, cleaning fluid, cigarette smoke, chalk dust, pollen and dust mites.
Management of Asthma
There have been many advances in the management of asthma, and children with asthma can lead a normal active life as long as it is managed appropriately. There are many different medicines available. Each child with asthma should have an asthma management plan that is developed by a medical provider. Some children need medication long-term while others may only need quick relief medicine to use in the event of an attack, says MedlinePlus.
Effects on Children
The goal for any child with asthma should be to keep asthma controlled and to minimize exacerbations of asthma as much as possible. School-age children may need to carry an inhaler or have one kept in the school nurse's office in case of an attack. Some doctors order a peak flow meter for children so that parents can monitor the child's lung function on a daily basis. When asthma attacks occur, it is important that children and parents work with the pediatrician to modify the existing regimen if needed. If asthma is preventing a child from participating in regular activities, he should be evaluated by a physician.
