Asthma Education


Asthma Overview

Asthma is a chronic lifelong illness that causes swelling, inflammation, and an over production of mucus in the airways. It can be a life threatening illness if not treated and controlled appropriately. Asthma is the most common chronic disease in children.

Normal Airway (left) and Airway Affected by Asthma (right)

Common symptoms of asthma:

  • Wheezing
  • Coughing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Changes in breathing
  • Nasal Flaring
  • Swollen belly
  • Chest tightness
  • Dark circles under eyes
  • Throat and/or chin itches
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Headache
  • Feeling tired or weak


Asthma Triggers
Asthma episodes often start when you come into contact with a “trigger”. There are two main types of triggers: irritants and allergens. Irritants are things that bother your airways and allergens are things that cause an allergic reaction.

Not all children with asthma have the same triggers and that is why it is so important for teachers, parents as well as the child know what their triggers are and how to avoid them.

Common Asthma Triggers

Allergens:

  • Dust Mites
  • Animal dander (animals with
    fur or feathers)
  • Mold
  • Pollen
  • Rodents and roaches

Irritants:

  • Tobacco smoke
  • Pollution
  • Strong odors

Others:

  • Weather
  • Exercise
  • Infections
  • Emotions

 

How to Handle an Asthma Episode
1. Stay Calm
2. Remove or move child away from any asthma triggers
3. Do not lie the child down. Have them sit or stand in a comfortable position
4. Have child use their reliever medication (inhaler/nebulizer) as directed by their asthma action plan
5. Call child’s parent/guardian or healthcare provider if symptoms persist

Signs of an Asthma Emergency

  • Difficulty talking (not able to finish a sentence)
  • Difficulty walking
  • Very fast or very slow breathing
  • Swollen belly
  • Nasal flaring (nostril size gets bigger with breathing)
  • Skin in neck area or rib area sucks in (retractions)
  • Pale, gray or blue around lips or nail beds


Any ONE of these symptoms means that the child’s asthma is serious and can be life threatening. It is important to have a child use their reliever medication (inhaler/nebulizer) right away and seek medical attention immediately.

CALL 911 FIRST, THEN PARENT/GUARDIANS

For more information on asthma view our What you Need to Know education series whcih covers topics such as:

  • Asthma and Triggers (en Español)
  • Allergies and Triggers (en Español)
  • Asthma Medicines (en Español)
  • Asthma Signs and Symptoms (en Español)
  • Nebulizers (en Español)
  • Peak Flow Meters (en Español)
  • Preparing for School with Asthma (en Español)
  • Spacers and MDI’s (en Español)
  • Steriods and Asthma (en Español)
  • Tobacco Smoke and Asthma (en Español)
  • Epi-Pens and Inhalers in School
  • Self Carry Medication Law


*Airway Illustrations: Vanessa Ruiz, 2007