With summertime being full of activity, The Lung Association wants to ensure that the one in five children with asthma keep it under control so they can stay active. If asthma is putting your child on the sideline that is a signal their asthma is not under control.
Check your child’s asthma control with these simple questions. Does the child:
- Have to use a reliever puffer (usually a blue puffer) more than three times a week?
- Have asthma symptoms more than three times a week?
- Ever have problems with exercise or sports because of asthma?
- Wake up one or more nights a week due to asthma?
- Miss any school days because of asthma?
If the answer to any of these questions is ‘yes,’ then their asthma is probably not under control and you should consult with your health-care provider.
Physical activity
Before beginning any physical activity, be sure your child warms up. Most children who have their asthma under control should not have to use a reliever puffer before being active. However, if it is needed, it should be taken 10 to 15 minutes before starting physical activity. If your child has any symptoms, he or she should stop and use a reliever puffer. Physical activity should only be started again if all the symptoms have disappeared.
Over the summer break many children may not manage their asthma well. Being out of their daily routine, some may even stop using their asthma medications. When they return to school, they can be at higher risk for getting colds resulting in flare-ups.
It’s a good idea to involve your child in their asthma management. They should know how to recognize the signs of worsening asthma and what to do about it. Help them take control of their asthma.
If you have any questions, call The Lung Association Lung Health Information Line at 1-888-344-LUNG (5864)
