ASTHMA FACTS
Asthma is a reversible obstructive lung disease, caused by increased reaction of the airways to various stimuli. It is a chronic inflammatory condition with acute exacerbations. Asthma can be a life-threatening disease if not properly managed.
Asthma is one of the most common chronic disorders in childhood, currently affecting an estimated 7.1 million children under 18 years of age.
An asthma episode is a series of events that results in narrowed airways. These include: swelling of the lining, tightening of the muscle, and increased secretion of mucus in the airway. The narrowed airway is responsible for the difficulty in breathing with the familiar “wheeze”.
Asthma is characterized by excessive sensitivity of the lungs to various stimuli. Triggers range from viral infections to allergies, to irritating gases and particles in the air. Each child reacts differently to the factors that may trigger asthma, including:
Secondhand smoke can cause serious harm to children. An estimated 400,000 to one million children with asthma have their condition worsened by exposure to secondhand smoke.
(American Lung Association)
Asthma is one of the most common chronic disorders in childhood, currently affecting an estimated 7.1 million children under 18 years of age.
An asthma episode is a series of events that results in narrowed airways. These include: swelling of the lining, tightening of the muscle, and increased secretion of mucus in the airway. The narrowed airway is responsible for the difficulty in breathing with the familiar “wheeze”.
Asthma is characterized by excessive sensitivity of the lungs to various stimuli. Triggers range from viral infections to allergies, to irritating gases and particles in the air. Each child reacts differently to the factors that may trigger asthma, including:
- respiratory infections and colds
- cigarette smoke
- allergic reactions to such allergens as pollen, mold, animal dander,
feather, dust, food, and cockroaches - indoor and outdoor air pollutants, including ozone and particle
pollution - exposure to cold air or sudden temperature change
- excitement/stress
- exercise
Secondhand smoke can cause serious harm to children. An estimated 400,000 to one million children with asthma have their condition worsened by exposure to secondhand smoke.
(American Lung Association)
ASTHMA IN SCHOOL
If your student has asthma, let your school nurse know. It is helpful to see your child's doctor over the summer to see if their medical plan needs updating. Have the doctor complete an Asthma Action Plan for the school year. You should complete the first page, identifying your child's asthma triggers and symptoms. The doctor will complete the second page, outlining how an asthma attack should be cared for at school. It is also helpful to complete a HIPAA Form so that your child's doctor and school nurse can communicate to coordinate care.
If your student is in elementary school, please provide an inhaler for the health office for your child to use if they have an asthma attack during the school day. Middle school students and older elementary students may carry their inhalers. If you wish your student to carry their inhaler, please note this on their health registration form at the start of the school year. If your student needs a refresher on using their inhaler, the nurse will be happy to review proper use and precautions with them.
If your student is in elementary school, please provide an inhaler for the health office for your child to use if they have an asthma attack during the school day. Middle school students and older elementary students may carry their inhalers. If you wish your student to carry their inhaler, please note this on their health registration form at the start of the school year. If your student needs a refresher on using their inhaler, the nurse will be happy to review proper use and precautions with them.
Lungtropolis
American Lung Association Asthma Education Sites
Play Lungtropolis and learn about your asthma.
American Lung Association Asthma Education Sites
Play Lungtropolis and learn about your asthma.
How Correctly To Use Your Inhaler
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How To Correctly Use An Inhaler and Spacer
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Correctly Use Your Inhaler
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