According to the National Institutes of Health, asthma is a chronic condition that causes the tubes responsible for carrying air in and out of your lungs, to become swollen and sore. The condition, which affects 9 million children, is much more serious for kids than it is for adults. Medications are available to treat the symptoms of asthma and prevent asthma attacks from occurring. There are steps you can take to help manage your child's asthma, allowing him to lead a full and productive childhood.
Step 1
Use a peak flow monitor. This device monitors the degree of airway obstruction. Using it two to three times a day and recording the results will help you determine how well your child's medication is working. It is an effective tool for helping her doctor adjust her treatment so she is receiving the most benefit from it. In addition, the peak flow monitor serves as a warning sign of an impending attack. In some cases, your child may not notice a difference in her breathing ability until it is too late to stop the attack; knowing a blockage is beginning helps you take preventative measures.
Step 2
Recognize her triggers. In most cases, your child will have a trigger that causes his asthma attack. This can be an irritant such as cigarette smoke, allergies such as mold, dust or pet fur, activities such as running or playing sports and changes in the weather. Noting his triggers will help him avoid them. It will also help his doctor determine what medications are better suited for his condition.
Step 3
Monitor her medications. According to the American Lung Association, you may have to try several different medications in various doses before the correct treatment plan is discovered for your child. Therefore it is important to monitor your child's medications for efficacy and side effects.
Step 4
Give medications as prescribed. This may seem like common sense, but it is an imperative aspect of managing your child's asthma. Your child may go days or weeks without an asthma attack. This does not mean he shouldn't take his medication. If his doctor has determined that he needs a certain medication to prevent flareups, then missing a dose or two may result in an attack taking place. Always speak to his doctor before discontinuing any medication.
Things You'll Need
- Educational handbook
- Trigger journal
- Peak flow monitor
- Medication
