What is Asthma ?
Asthma is a disease of the lungs. The airways swell, tighten and produce mucous making breathing difficult. The person may cough, complain of chest tightness, wheezing and or trouble breathing. The episode or attack is usually caused by certain triggers. See side bar for triggers.
Signs and Symptoms of Asthma
Common signs and symptoms of asthma include:
- Coughing.
- Wheezing.
- Chest tightness.
- Shortness of breath. Some people who have asthma say they can't catch their breath or they feel out of breath. You may feel like you can't get air out of your lungs.
Potential Triggers
- viral illness/infections
- cold air
- exercise
- allergens(dust mites,feathered and furred animals,cockroaches, pollens,mold)
- obesity
- weather/air pollution
- smoke
- stress/depression
- some medications
Response and Treatment
- quickly evaluate
- provide rescue inhaler
- follow asthma action plan
- remaining calm
- provide water
- encourage to relax neck and shoulders
- encourage belly breathing
- re-check asthma plan
- notify parent
- call 911 is situation warrants.
Sample Asthma Action Plan