Health Asthma


Asthma: a guide for parents


One in 11 children in the UK has asthma, says Asthma UK – that’s an average of three children in every classroom. Here’s what all parents should be aware of


If you have a child with asthma, it can be difficult. But it can be very worrying too. Asthma UK claims a child is admitted to hospital every 20 minutes in this country because of an asthma attack. But having asthma doesn’t mean your child can’t have a normal, healthy childhood. Indeed, if their asthma is controlled properly, they can carry on as usual, and the condition shouldn’t hold them back in any way. Here are some of the things you can do to help them:


Find out about their medicines It’s essential that you understand what medicines your child needs for their asthma, how they work and when your child should use them. The better you understand your child’s medicines, the more likely they’ll take them exactly as prescribed every day – which means it’s more likely they’ll get the most out of them. Speak to your Pharmacist if you have any questions


about asthma medicines, or have a chat with their GP or asthma nurse.


Learn their triggers Common asthma triggers include cigarette smoke, pollen, house dust mites, mould, pets, cold weather, exercise and colds and other viruses. Learning to spot which triggers set off your child’s symptoms can help you avoid them


22 All About You


whenever possible. It’s also important to make sure your child realises what their triggers are, especially as they get older and become more responsible for managing their symptoms themselves. If you don’t know what triggers your child’s asthma,


have a chat with your Pharmacist or speak to their GP or asthma nurse.


Help for winter


Winter air can sometimes trigger asthma symptoms such as wheezing and coughing. Here’s what you should do make sure your child’s asthma is under control when it’s cold outside:


1. Make sure they have their reliever inhaler (usually blue) with them at all times.


2. Wrap them up warm when they go out (wearing a scarf loosely around their nose and mouth can be helpful).


3. Try to make sure they breathe through their nose, as this may help stop cold air triggering their symptoms.


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