Asthma Attacks
From ChildWiki.com
Asthma is a common lung condition in children and teenagers. Unlike normal breathing function, asthma sufferers have inflamed bronchial tubes and hypersensitivity to allergens and physical activity. This sensitivity results in constriction of the bronchial tubes and difficulty breathing. Symptoms of asthma attacks include chest tightness, rapid breathing, wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath.
[edit] Causes
Anyone can have or develop asthma. The condition is often inherited from parents, but environmental factors can contribute to or aggravate the condition.
To avoid triggering asthma attacks, children with asthma should avoid:
- Strenuous exercise
- Pollen
- Pet dander
- Dust
- Cold air
- Fumes
- Smoke
Asthma that develops a virus or infection is often outgrown in children who have no allergies.
[edit] Treatments
An asthma attack can be a frightening experience for children and parents, but it is a highly treatable condition.
A common means of asthma treatment is a hand-held inhaler. These inhalers administer a pre-determined amount of medication, and are available for daily use as preventative medicine, or as a rescue inhaler to be used during an asthma attack.
Children older than four years old are usually able to operate these devices on their own. Children with asthma should be trained how to coordinate breathing when using the inhaler by doctors and parents. Improper use of the device will not administer the medicine directly to the lungs.
Avoiding environmental triggers may reduce the frequency of attacks. If asthma is exercise-induced, special medications can be prescribed and taken prior to play or workouts to allow a child to participate in normal activities.
