Support for Children with Asthma
Caring for a child with asthma can be intimidating. Understanding what triggers asthma attacks, and the treatments available to prevent and resolve severe reactions can be very complicated. The following guide is not meant to replace medical advice, but can be a starting point for a parent or caregiver who is navigating life with a child who has asthma.
What is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic medical condition that affects the airways that carry oxygen into the lungs. In a person with asthma the airways can become inflamed and irritated by things in the air like smoke, dust and chemicals, as well as infections within the body, or by exercise, exposure to cold air, medicines, and even strong emotions that may cause heavy breathing.
This article and video from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute provides an overview of the medical condition known as asthma. It includes definitions, a list of common triggers (or things that can cause an asthma attack), and links to more informational resources.
The American Lung Association’s (ALA) website provides lots of information about asthma including prevention recommendations.
This article from the Cleveland Clinic discusses risk factors, diagnosis and condition management for asthma in children.
Signs of an Asthma Attack
The most important component of asthma care is recognizing the signs and symptoms of an asthma attack. A severe attack can be life threatening so acting quickly is very important. Being prepared for an emergency could save your child’s life.
Symptoms of an asthma attack can come on quickly, or can build over several hours or even days. This chart from Asthma.com can help you to recognize some symptoms of an asthma attach in the child you care for.
Having an asthma action plan can help you in emergency situations. If you have not already created an action plan with your child’s healthcare provider, you can download this template from Nemours Kids Health to create one. Be sure to review your completed plans to grandparents, babysitters, coaches and classroom teachers to ensure that other adults caring for your child are prepared to react in a time of crisis.
How to Properly Use an Inhaler and Information about Mediation
You may be most familiar with medications that are swallowed (like pills and liquids) or injected (through a needle), but asthma medications are commonly delivered directly to the lungs by inhaling them (breathing them in).
This resource from Children’s Hospital of Orange County includes descriptions of two common devices used to deliver medication into the lungs, inhalers and nebulizers. The resource also includes videos on proper use of these devices and a tutorial on how to use a “spacer” with each device as well.
One of the most common tools for managing asthma is a medication called a “steroid.” Some caregivers may have concerns about their child taking steroid. This article from University of Michigan breaks down myths and facts related to steroid usage in treating asthma.
Asthma for Athletes
Individuals with asthma may have fears or concerns surrounding their participation in sports and other activities where physical activity could cause heavy breathing. Since asthma attacks can be induced by overexertion of the body, it is important to have a plan in place when it comes to your child’s participation in sports.
This article breaks down the ways to best prepare a child to participate in athletics, while managing their asthma.
If your child or teen has fears about the potential limitations of an asthma diagnosis, this list of professional athletes with asthma may be of interest to them.
Financial Assistance Programs for Prescriptions and Inhalers
Asthma medications can be expensive. These prescription assistance tools may be able to help you cover the costs associated with your child’s asthma medication. If you need help navigating these resources or finding financial support that is specific to your state, region or community, ask your medical provider to connect you with a social worker.
Parent Blogs
Below are the links of two popular blogs intended for parents who have children with asthma. In these blogs you’ll find information from individuals who have lived experience as caregivers. While peer support like this can be invaluable, please keep in mind that these are not medical experts. It is important to discuss all medical treatment with a trusted professional.
My Life as an Asthma Mom - Written by a mom with allergies and asthma, who cares for 3 children who have allergies and asthma and offering advice on how to avoid the pitfalls.
Hardluck Asthma - Written by a blogger with asthma who provides a real world glimpse into the challenges related to living with asthma.
Contributed by: Sebastian Cappeta, Pre-medical Neuroscience Student, Bachelor of Science Case Western Reserve University, 2023