Asthma-Part 2

Finally, part 2.  We hope this information helps you understand asthma, if you still have questions, don't hesitate to call us in the office!!

How is asthma treated?

The goal of asthma treatment is to eliminate or reduce symptoms so children can fully participate in normal physical activities. This can be done by avoiding asthma triggers and providing asthma medicine. It's also important to prevent emergency department visits and hospital stays because of asthma attacks. If your child experiences asthma symptoms more than twice per week, let your child's doctor know.

What are asthma triggers?

Certain things cause asthma attacks or make asthma worse. These are called triggers. It is important to find out what those triggers are for your child and learn ways to help your child avoid them. Allergens and irritants are triggers that can be found in your home, school, child care, and relatives' homes.

Some common asthma triggers are

• Allergens: These are things to which your child might be allergic. Many children with asthma have allergies, and allergies can be a major cause of asthma symptoms.

– House dust mites (tiny "bugs" you cannot see that are commonly found in bedding, carpet, and upholstered furniture)

– Animals with fur or hair

– Cockroaches

– Mice

– Pollens (trees, grass, weeds)

• Infections of the lungs and sinuses



– Viral infections

– Bacterial infections, such as pneumonia or sinus infections

• Irritants in the environment (air that you breathe)



– Cigarette and other smoke

– Air pollution (chemicals, smog, auto exhaust, etc)

– Cold or dry air

– Sudden changes in weather

– Odors, fragrances, chemicals in sprays, and cleaning products

– Unventilated space heaters (gas or kerosene) and fireplaces

– Odors and gases released from new carpets, furniture, or materials in new buildings

• Exercise (About 80% of people with asthma develop wheezing, coughing, and a tight feeling in their chest when they exercise or may develop prolonged cough or wheeze on completion of exercise.)
  *Information taken from www.aap.org*