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Asthma


usually improve within 48 hours. Short courses of steroids are generally safe and may help avoid hospitalization. Side ef- fects may include temporary irritability and poor sleeping.


Preventative Measures


* An inhaled corticosteroid (also known as a preventative inhaler) works directly on the lung tissue to decrease swelling in the lower airways. Preventative medication needs to be taken daily as directed, using the correct technique. An aerosol inhaler should be used with a spacer device. A spacer device with a mask is recommend- ed for children under five years of age. Children five years and older may be ready for a spacer device with a mouthpiece. Your healthcare provider should demonstrate how to use the medication. If medicines are not taken correctly, they may not get into the lower airways and decrease swelling, caus- ing the asthma symptoms. Always rinse your child’s mouth after inhaled corticosteroids to prevent thrush. Talk to your provider if you are considering stopping your child’s medication. Remember that asthma is con- trolled and your child is without symptoms because of the medication. If you stop asthma medications, the asthma symptoms often return within two to four weeks.


r* Always know where your child’s quick-


elief medicine is, and make sure it is not empty and not expired.


*For children who also have allergies: • Taking antihistamines and nasal steroids


• More expensive measures may include: Remove carpets from the home.


can help control allergies.  


Use HEPA vacuum cleaners that have a filter (hospital grade).


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Asthma Flare-ups Keep your child’s asthma well controlled by using daily controller medications pre- scribed by your provider and by avoiding


www.readysetgrowmag.com


Keep hairy or furry pets out of your child’s bedroom


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Avoid having animals in the house. If you cannot keep pets outdoors, keep those with fur or hair out of your child’s bedroom.


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Consider having your child evaluated by an allergist to discuss possible allergy shots or allergy drops.


Monitoring and Responding to Asthma Symptoms Asthma can be controlled, but recognizing when your child’s asthma is not controlled is also important. The following signs may mean your child’s asthma is a problem:


* Asthma symptoms need a quick-relief medicine two or more days a week.


* Asthma symptoms limit activity.


* Your child is waking up at night from asthma symptoms two or more times a month.


* Your child needs oral steroids for asthma flare-ups two or more times a year.


If you notice any of these problems, make an appointment with your provider to discuss what can be done to get the asthma well controlled.


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