Clinic byte: Asthma

Asthma is the most common health problem among children. It is a chronic inflammatory disease where the lining of the airways becomes swollen and inflamed making it difficult to move air freely in and out of the lungs. The person feels short of breath and as the air moves through the tightened airways, you can hear a whistling sound also known as wheezing.

 

Common asthma triggers include infections (cold, flu), allergens (pollen, mold spores, pet dander and dust mites), irritants (strong odor, perfumes, cleaning solutions or air pollution), tobacco smoke, strenuous exercise or cold weather.

 

Symptoms of asthma are coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness or pressure. Symptoms may vary from one attack to the next. Children with asthma usually have a prescribed inhaler with an appropriate spacer and/or a nebulizer. The doctor may prescribe steroid for acute attacks. I do encourage parents to keep an inhaler in the clinic if the child had recurring episodes. All medications need to be in their original container and a consent form needs to be signed by the parent. The clinic does have a nebulizer machine but parents need to supply the medication with accessories. Older students may carry their inhaler in their backpacks after both parent and student sign a self-carry consent form.

 

There is no cure for asthma but it can be controlled. Identifying and avoiding asthma triggers, taking medications as prescribed and follow up with the primary health care provider are all important steps in controlling asthma thus reducing missed days from school or work.

Until next time, remain healthy.

 

Marie Confident, RN

Shorecrest school nurse