<!– /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:”"; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} h2 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:2; font-size:18.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; font-weight:bold;} h3 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:3; font-size:13.5pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; font-weight:bold;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} p {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} /* List Definitions */ @list l0 {mso-list-id:742142749; mso-list-template-ids:1498315912;} @list l0:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:?; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} @list l1 {mso-list-id:2138334659; mso-list-template-ids:1372121538;} @list l1:level1 {mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} ul {margin-bottom:0in;} –>
An asthma attack is what happens when your asthma symptoms become worse than usual.
What is Happening?
During an asthma attack the muscles around your airways tighten more than usual, leading to a bronchospasm.
The inner lining of the airways swell and become irritated while the airways produce large amounts of mucus, which makes breathing even more difficult.
Symptoms
The symptoms of an asthma attack include:
- Coughing (which doesn’t seem to quit)
- Severe wheezing (when breathing both in and out)
- Severe chest tightness, pain or pressure
- Tightening of the muscles between your ribs and chest
- Shortness of breath (feeling as if you can’t catch your breath)
- Fast breathing
- Feelings of anxiety or panic
- Blue coloring of the lips and fingernails (cyanosis)
- A pale, sweaty face
During a severe asthma attack, few, if any, of these symtpoms respond to medication.
Frequency
Every person is different. Some may go for long periods of time without having an asthma attack, even a mild one. Others may have attacks more often and may have ones that are more severe.
An asthma attack is a sign that your condition is not under control. You may need to talk with your doctor about your asthma management plan. Medication or lifestyle factors may need to be adjusted.
How to Handle
An asthma action plan is the key to handling an asthma attack. Every person who has asthma needs to have one of these plans.
An Asthma Action Plan is a written document that details your asthma triggers, usual symptoms, peak flow readings, and what actions to take at different stages of the attack if your symptoms were to worsen. This plan should be developed with the help of your doctor, and should have three components:
- Stages of severity
- List of symptoms to watch for
- Actions to take
Be sure you have an asthma action plan and that you follow it closely. If your child has asthma, make sure any caregivers you use know about the plan and know how to use it.
See Also
An Asthma Action Plan Sample.
Learn How to Use an Asthma Action Plan.
What Kids Need to Know
Children who have asthma need to know how to handle an asthma attack on their own. As they get older their parents won’t always be close by to guide them. It’s important that they learn what actions to take.
An Asthma Action Plan is the key to knowing what actions to take and when. Make sure your child carries a copy of the asthma action plan, or knows where to find it in a hurry. Make sure the plan is in a form that your child can easily read and follow.
Treatments
Notice the Early Warning Signs
The best way to prevent an asthma attack is to avoid your personal triggers as much as possible.
It’s also important that you learn how to recognize the early warning signs of an impending asthma attack. These are symptoms which signal an attack and indicate that your condition is about to worsen.
They might include things such as: a frequent cough, shortness of breath, increased peak flow meter readings, feeling extra tired when you’re active, a negative change in mood and trouble sleeping. You may also notice cold-like symptoms including: nasal stuffiness, sore throat, sneezing and runny nose.
If you notice any of these symptoms take quick action to prevent an asthma attack.
Medications/Natural Treatments
<!– /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:”"; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} h2 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:2; font-size:18.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; font-weight:bold;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} p {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} /* List Definitions */ @list l0 {mso-list-id:966855208; mso-list-template-ids:-1597847926;} @list l0:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:?; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} @list l1 {mso-list-id:1931573445; mso-list-template-ids:-522932966;} @list l1:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:?; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} ul {margin-bottom:0in;} –>
An Explanation
Asthma is a chronic disease which affects the airways of your respiratory system. If you suffer from asthma, your airways are hypersensitive to certain causes or triggers. When exposed to these triggers, your airways will contract. Inflammation and excessive mucus production will soon follow, leading to a further narrowing of the airways. This usually results in attacks of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness and coughing.
Related Topics
- Asthma, also known as bronchial asthma, should not be confused with Cardiac Asthma.
- When your asthma symptoms become worse than usual, it is usually referred to as an Asthma Attack.
<!– /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:”"; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} h2 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:2; font-size:18.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; font-weight:bold;} p {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} /* List Definitions */ @list l0 {mso-list-id:533616976; mso-list-template-ids:1065386602;} @list l0:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:?; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} ul {margin-bottom:0in;} –>
It is important to recognize that signs and symptoms of asthma so that it may be detected and treated. If you believe you or a loved one is experiencing signs and symptoms of asthma, seek medical attention and further diagnosis.
Symptoms
Common asthma symptoms include:
- Coughing (usually worse at night or early in the morning)
- Chest tightness (feeling like something is squeezing or sitting on your chest)
- Shortness of breath (feeling out of breath or feeling like you can’t get enough air into your lungs)
- Wheezing (a whistling or squeaky sound when you breathe)
- Faster breathing or noisy breathing
Not all people will have these symptoms, and symptoms may vary from one asthma attack to another. Symptoms may differ in how severe they are. They can be mildly annoying, or serious enough to make you stop what you are doing, or even so serious as to be life-threatening.
Symptoms may also differ in how often they occur. Some people will have symptoms only once every few months while others will have symptoms every week. Some people may even experience symptoms every day. With proper treatment, most people with asthma can expect to have few or no symptoms.
<!– /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:”"; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} h2 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:2; font-size:18.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; font-weight:bold;} h3 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:3; font-size:13.5pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; font-weight:bold;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} p {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} /* List Definitions */ @list l0 {mso-list-id:1818574086; mso-list-template-ids:-1162597244;} @list l0:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:?; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} ul {margin-bottom:0in;} –>
Is It Possible?
Currently, asthma cannot be prevented, though its symptoms can be controlled to the point where a person can live a relatively normal life.
Ways to Prevent Asthma Symptoms
- Develop a written Asthma Action Plan
- Identify and avoid asthma triggers
- Identify and treat your asthma attacks early
- Monitor your breathing
- Do not change your medication program without first consulting your doctor
It is crucial that you stay on top of your asthma management. There is increasing evidence that untreated airway inflammation will lead to a long-term decrease in lung function; possibly even permanent damage. There’s also proof that if asthma is improperly treated it may get worse over time.
See Also
Ways to asthma-proof your Home.
Ways to asthma-proof your Workplace.
Ways to best Travel with asthma.
<!– /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:”"; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} h2 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:2; font-size:18.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; font-weight:bold;} h3 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:3; font-size:13.5pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; font-weight:bold;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} p {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} /* List Definitions */ @list l0 {mso-list-id:389839903; mso-list-template-ids:-405211574;} @list l0:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:?; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} ul {margin-bottom:0in;} –>
Asthma Treatments
Asthma treatment includes: avoiding things that bring on your asthma symptoms or make your symptoms worse, using asthma medication, and monitoring your asthma so that you are able recognize symptoms to prevent an asthma attack early on.
With proper treatment you should have your asthma controlled, be free of asthma symptoms, and have fewer asthma attacks. Also, you should not need to use quick-relief medicines as often, and you should be able to do normal activities without having symptoms.
Your doctor should work with you to develop an asthma self-management plan and an emergency Asthma Action Plan to aid you in keeping your asthma under control.
In general, you should also know:
- Your asthma triggers and how to avoid them
- Early signs that indicate your asthma is about to get worse
- How and when to use a Peak Flow Meter
- When to call your doctor
- When you should get emergency treatment
See Also
To know if your asthma is under control, take this quick Asthma Control Test.
Treating Asthma in Pregnancy*
If you are pregnant it is very important to both you and your baby to control your asthma. Uncontrolled asthma can lower the oxygen level in your blood, which means that your baby gets less oxygen too.
Most asthma medicines are generally safe to take during pregnancy. Doctors recommend that it is safer to take asthma medicines during pregnancy than to take the chance that you will have an attack.
If you are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant, talk to your doctor about your asthma and how to have a healthy pregnancy.
Treating Exercise-induced Asthma*
Regular physical activity is important for good health. If exercise brings on your asthma symptoms, talk to your doctor about the best ways to control your asthma when you are active. Some people with asthma use inhaled, quick-relief medicines before exercising to keep symptoms under control.
If you use your asthma medicines as directed, you should be able to take part in any physical activity or sport you choose. Many Olympic athletes actually have asthma!
Treating Asthma in Older Adults*
Older adults may need to adjust their asthma treatment because of other diseases or conditions that they have. Some medicines (i.e. beta blockers used for treating high blood pressure and glaucoma, aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can interfere with asthma medicines or even cause asthma attacks. Be sure to tell your doctor about all medicines that you take, including over-the-counter drugs.
Using steroids may affect bone density in adults, so ask your doctor about taking calcium and vitamin D supplements and other ways to help keep your bones strong.
Medications and Natural Remedies
See: Asthma Medications & Natural Remedies
Using a Peak Flow Meter
See: Peak Flow Meter
*copied from National Heart Lung and Blood Institute website
<!– /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:”"; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} h2 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:2; font-size:18.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; font-weight:bold;} h3 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:3; font-size:13.5pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; font-weight:bold;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} p {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} /* List Definitions */ @list l0 {mso-list-id:213349274; mso-list-template-ids:1163296604;} @list l0:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:?; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} @list l1 {mso-list-id:992880184; mso-list-template-ids:-299058796;} @list l1:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:?; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} ul {margin-bottom:0in;} –>
Medications*
Your doctor will prescribe specific medications for you according to the severity of your asthma. In general, there are two types of medications: quick-relief medications and long-term medications. Most treatment plans use at least one medicine of each type to relieve and control asthma symptoms.
Quick-relief
Quick-relief medicines are taken at the first signs of asthma for immediate relief of symptoms. You should feel the effects of these medicines within minutes.
Everyone with asthma needs a quick-relief medicine to stop asthma symptoms before they get worse. Short-acting inhaled beta-agonists are the preferred quick-relief medicine. These medicines are bronchodilators. They act quickly to relax tightened muscles around your airways so that the airways can open up and allow more air to flow through.
You should take your quick-relief medicine when you first begin to feel asthma symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath. You should carry your quick-relief inhaler with you at all times in case of an asthma attack.
Your doctor may recommend that you take your quick-relief medicines at other times as well, such as before you exercise.
Long-term Control
Long-term control medicines are taken every day to prevent symptoms and asthma episodes or attacks. You will feel the full effects of these medicines after taking them for a few weeks. People with persistent asthma need long-term control medicines.
The most effective, long-term control medicine for asthma is an inhaled corticosteroid because this medicine reduces the airway swelling that makes asthma attacks more likely.
Inhaled corticosteroids (AKA steroids) are the preferred medicine for controlling mild, moderate and severe persistent asthma. They are generally safe when taken as directed by your doctor.
In some cases, steroid tablets or liquid are used for short periods of time to bring asthma under control. The tablet or liquid form may also be used to control severe asthma.
If you stop taking long-term control medicines, your asthma will likely worsen again.
Most asthma medicines are inhaled. They go directly into your lungs where they are needed. There are many kinds of inhalers, and many require different techniques. It is important to know how to use your inhaler correctly.
Natural Remedies**
There is currently no cure for asthma, natural or otherwise, but there are natural ways to treat asthma symptoms. However, because there have been few or no research studies on most types of alternative medicine for asthma, the effectiveness and safety of many are unknown.
Here are some examples of natural asthma remedies:
- Herbs and natural dietary supplements. Many different herbs, plants and supplements have been used with asthma, including Tylophora (Indian ipecac), butterbur, ephedra (ma huang), katuka, grapeseed, boswellia and dried ivy. Since none have been definitively shown to help asthma symptoms, they are generally not recommended. Ma huang (ephedra), a very common herb used in dietary supplements, has been used for years as a bronchodilator. Ephedra was recently banned by the FDA. Several studies have looked at using vitamin C supplements and omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) for asthma symptoms. There is currently not enough evidence to recommend these natural therapies.
- Yoga. Oftentimes, stress triggers asthma symptoms. But breathing exercises used in yoga have been found to help some people with asthma control breathing and relieve stress, a common asthma trigger.
- Asthma diet. Restricting dairy products and sugar has reportedly helped some children with childhood asthma.
- Acupuncture. This Chinese medicine technique uses needles on pressure points to relieve symptoms. While some people with asthma have found that acupuncture can significantly reduce asthma attacks and improve lung function, studies are not conclusive.
- Biofeedback. Learning to increase the amount of air inhaled has reduced fear and anxiety during an asthma attack for some people with asthma.
Most people think of herbs as being natural and therefore safe to take. It is important to remember that many herbs have not been thoroughly tested and the FDA does not regulate them.
It is also very important that you always inform your doctor if you are taking any herbs, dietary supplements, or other natural remedies. Some herbs may worsen your asthma or other medical condition, or they may interfere with prescribed asthma medicines you are taking.
How to Know which Natural Asthma Remedies Are Safe
Because most natural asthma remedies are not regulated, it is difficult to know what you are getting. Here are some tips to follow when considering using a natural asthma remedy:
- Talk to your doctor about any natural asthma remedy you are considering before trying it. Alternative medicine for asthma should never replace your asthma inhaler or inhaled steroids for asthma.
- If you experience side effects such as nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, insomnia, diarrhea or skin rashes, stop taking the herbal product and notify your doctor.
- Avoid preparations made with more than one herb.
- Beware of commercial claims of what herbal products can do. Look for scientific-based sources of information.
- Select brands carefully. Only purchase brands that list the herb’s common and scientific name, the name and address of the manufacturer, a batch and lot number, expiration date, dosage guidelines and potential side effects.
- Always talk to your asthma doctor before taking any medication or natural dietary supplement.
*copied from National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
**copied from WebMD
<!– /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:”"; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} h2 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:2; font-size:18.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; font-weight:bold;} h3 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:3; font-size:13.5pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; font-weight:bold;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} p {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} –>
As part of your daily asthma self-management plan, your doctor may recommend that you use a hand-held device called a peak flow meter to monitor how well your lungs are working.
How to Use
You use the peak flow meter by taking in a deep breath and then blowing the air out hard into the peak flow meter. The peak flow meter then gives you a peak flow number that tells you how fast you moved the air out.
You will need to find out your personal best peak flow number. You do this by recording your peak flow number every day for a few weeks until your asthma is under control. The highest number you get during that time is your personal best peak flow. Then you can compare future peak flow measurements to your personal best peak flow, and that will show if your asthma is staying under control.
Your doctor will tell you how and when to use your peak flow meter and how to use your medicine based on the results. You may be advised to use your peak flow meter each morning to keep track of how well you are breathing.
Your peak flow meter can help warn you of a possible asthma attack even before you notice symptoms. If your peak flow meter shows that your breathing is getting worse, you should follow your emergency asthma action plan. Take your quick-relief or other medicines as your doctor directed. Then you can use the peak flow meter to see how your airways are responding to the medicine.
See Also
For a step-by-step Peak Flow Meter Tutorial.
Peak Flow Meter vs Spirometer/Spirometry
A peak flow meter is a device used to measure the rate at which a person can forcefully exhale air out of the lungs. This rate is measured in peak expiratory flow (PEF), and peak flow meters can be used by a person in a home setting.
Spirometry is a term used to describe a group of pulmonary function tests. This includes measuring PEF, a test that is performed by a doctor in a hospital setting. The information gathered during these tests is useful in diagnosing certain types of lung disease like asthma.
Daily PEF monitoring is often confused with spirometry measurements. It is not meant to replace spirometry testing, but rather to reinforce spirometry by providing a daily warning system to help people manage their asthma.
*copied from National Heart Lung and Blood Institute
<!– /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:”"; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} h2 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:2; font-size:18.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; font-weight:bold;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} p {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} span.bodytext {mso-style-name:bodytext;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} /* List Definitions */ @list l0 {mso-list-id:182090978; mso-list-template-ids:1596988422;} @list l0:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:?; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} @list l1 {mso-list-id:1288974080; mso-list-template-ids:-1489757962;} @list l1:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:?; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} ul {margin-bottom:0in;} –>
Helping someone live with asthma can be a frightening responsibility. Attacks can be scary, especially if you don’t know what will trigger an attack, or when an attack will take place. But by understanding the condition you can effectively and successively help your loved one manage, treat and control asthma.
Understand the Symptoms
Some common asthma symptoms include:
- Coughing (usually worse at night or early in the morning)
- Chest tightness (feeling like something is squeezing or sitting on your chest)
- Shortness of breath (feeling out of breath or feeling like you can’t get enough air into your lungs)
- Wheezing (a whistling or squeaky sound when you breathe)
- Faster breathing or noisy breathing
Note the symptoms and treat them as early warning signs of a possible asthma attack.
Care-giving Tips
It’s not easy to care for a family member or friend with asthma. You may be unsure of the best way to help, and helping may mean making adjustments in your own life. The following are some tips to aid you in helping someone with asthma:
- Make sure your loved one has an Asthma Action Plan. Familiarize yourself with it so that you will know exactly what to do if needed.
- Learn about the asthma medications your loved one takes: know whether the medication is quick-relief or long-term, the correct dosage required, and the times it should be taken.
- Know what to do during an emergency and know which medication will help and how to administer it.
- If you think your loved one is having a severe episode, get medical help immediately.
- If your loved-one’s asthma is allergy-induced, allergy-proof the environment as much as possible.
Helping a Child with Asthma
See: Children with Asthma
<!– /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:”"; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} h2 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:2; font-size:18.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; font-weight:bold;} h3 {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; mso-outline-level:3; font-size:13.5pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; font-weight:bold;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} p {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} /* List Definitions */ @list l0 {mso-list-id:357121332; mso-list-template-ids:1153195862;} @list l0:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:?; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} @list l1 {mso-list-id:1021201462; mso-list-template-ids:289426078;} @list l1:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:?; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} @list l2 {mso-list-id:1361324462; mso-list-template-ids:1692419632;} @list l2:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:?; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} @list l3 {mso-list-id:1776292751; mso-list-template-ids:433247130;} @list l3:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:?; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} @list l4 {mso-list-id:1875342866; mso-list-template-ids:-417553734;} @list l4:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:?; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} ul {margin-bottom:0in;} –>
Information for Parents
In the United States, about 20 million people have asthma; nearly nine million of them are children. Asthma can begin at any age, but most children have their first symptoms by age five. Children’s airways are smaller than those of adults, so having asthma may be especially serious for them.
Things Which Make a Child More Likely to Develop Asthma
Risk factors for developing childhood asthma include:
- Presence of allergies
- Family history of asthma and/or allergies
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Low birth weight
- Exposure to tobacco smoke before and/or after birth
- Being raised in a low-income environment
- Being male
- Being black
Why More Children are Developing Asthma
There is no clear reason as to why more children are developing asthma. Some experts suggest that children are being exposed to more allergens such as dust, air pollution, and second-hand smoke, which are all triggers of asthma. Others suggest that children are not exposed to enough childhood illnesses to build up their immune system. It may be that a failure of the immune system, where the body does not make enough protective antibodies, may be a reason for the increasing number of asthmatic children. Some even suggest that decreasing rates of breastfeeding are preventing important substances in the immune system of the mother from being passed on to babies.
How to Tell if a Child Has Asthma
Signs and symptoms to look for include:
- Frequent coughing spells (may occur during play, while laughing or at night)
- Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing in or out)
- Rapid breathing
- Shortness of breath or loss of breath
- Tightened neck and chest muscles
- Feelings of weakness or tiredness
- Less energy during play
- Complaint of chest tightness or chest pain
- Retractions (visible sinking of the chest wall from labored breathing)
However, not all children have the same asthma symptoms. These symptoms can vary from asthma episode to episode in the same child.
Keep in mind that not all wheezing or coughing is caused by asthma. For children under five years of age, the most common cause of asthma-like symptoms is upper respiratory viral infections such as the common cold.
If your child has problems breathing, take him/her to the doctor immediately for an evaluation.
Related Topics
- Know how asthma is Diagnosed in Children.
- Learn about available Asthma Treatments for Children (medications and natural remedies).
- Learn how to best Manage a Child with Asthma.
<!– /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Wingdings; panose-1:5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0; mso-font-charset:2; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:0 268435456 0 0 -2147483648 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:”"; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} p {mso-margin-top-alt:auto; margin-right:0in; mso-margin-bottom-alt:auto; margin-left:0in; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:”Times New Roman”; mso-fareast-font-family:”Times New Roman”;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} /* List Definitions */ @list l0 {mso-list-id:84233803; mso-list-template-ids:-836757026;} @list l0:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:?; mso-level-tab-stop:.5in; mso-level-number-position:left; text-indent:-.25in; mso-ansi-font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Symbol;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} ul {margin-bottom:0in;} –>
Asthma is often difficult to diagnose in infants. The disease can often be diagnosed in older children based on the child’s medical history, symptoms and physical exam.
- Medical history and symptom description. Your child’s doctor will be interested in any history of breathing problems you or your child may have had, as well as a family history of asthma, allergies, a skin condition called eczema or other lung disease. It is important that you describe your child’s symptoms — cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain or tightness — in detail, including when and how often these symptoms have been occurring.
- Physical exam. During the physical examination, the doctor will listen to your child’s heart and lungs.
- Tests. Many children will also have a chest X-ray and pulmonary function tests. Also called lung function tests, these tests measure the amount of air in the lungs and how fast it can be exhaled. The results help the doctor determine how severe the asthma is. Generally, children younger than five are unable to perform pulmonary function ests. Thus, doctors rely heavily on history, symptoms and examination in making the diagnosis.
Other tests may also be ordered to help identify particular asthma triggers. These tests may include allergy skin testing, blood tests and X-rays to determine if sinus infections or gastroesophageal reflux disease (a gastrointestinal condition that causes reflux of acid stomach contents into the esophagus or even into the lungs) is complicating asthma.
Article source: http://www.webmd.com/asthma/children