Allergies And Asthma

A number of “triggers” can bring on an asthma episode. These can vary from child to child. They include: Respiratory infections Exercise and sports Weather Irritants and pollutants Certain medications and foods Allergies Stress Certain health problems Respiratory Infections Respiratory-tract infections, such as the common cold and flu, can make asthma worse. How To Information […]

It is very important to work closely with the doctor in getting control of the asthma. If you ever feel that the treatment is not going well, don’t be embarrassed to say so. The doctor will: Give you advice about avoiding the things that cause attacks. Prescribe medication to control inflammation. Prescribe “rescue” medication to

Parents should make sure that the child plays an important part in managing his or her own asthma. For example: Small children (even 6- and 7-year olds) should know the names of the their medications, and how the medicine helps. All children over the age of 4 or 5 should know what triggers their attacks,

The peak flow meter is an important device that can give you valuable information about your child’s air passages – whether air is passing through freely, or whether they are partially blocked. The meter measures how fast the child is able to breathe into it. This measurement is known as the “peak flow.” Most children

Medicines are taken daily, whether or not symptoms occur, to prevent asthma attacks. The goal of these medications is to reduce the inflammation in the air passages. They are therefore called anti-inflammatory medications. These medicines need to be taken even when there are no obvious symptoms of asthma. They are particularly helpful in preventing asthma

The safest and most effective way of opening up the air passages in the lungs when an attack is about to start or has started is by using medications called bronchodilators. They are the “rescue medications.” These medicines are taken as soon as coughing or wheezing starts. Once the symptoms end, the child may need

The medication given to prevent and treat asthma is usually inhaled, because it gets directly to the lungs, where it is needed. Depending on the child’s age, there are several different devices through which the medicine can be inhaled: Through an inhaler. An inhaler is a device in which the medication is contained in a small

For all asthma medications, it is very important to follow the doctor’s instructions. Here are some tips to make the most of the medication: Don’t stop the medication that is used to prevent attacks.Because the benefits of preventive medications are not immediate, parents sometimes stop giving the drug regularly or even discontinue it altogether. This

Children will learn to recognize when an attack may be coming. Here are some of the most common signs: A change in breathing pattern A runny, stuffy nose A cough Feeling or looking tired An itchy, scratchy throat Headache Bad mood Difficulty sleeping Stomachache These are the signs of a more serious attack: The child

If you are pregnant and have asthma, you should try to learn all you can about the drugs you are taking to control your asthma. Good asthma control is essential to provide the oxygen your body and the fetus needs. Your doctor will work out the asthma plan best suited to your needs while you

Here are some frequently asked questions related to asthma in adults. Q: What breathing exercises can help me during an asthma attack? A: Pursed-lip breathing involves closing the lips tightly and blowing air out past them the way you would when blowing out a candle. This action helps keep the airways open during exhalation by keeping