What Is Asthma?
People who suffer from asthma face narrowing in the airways and respiratory passages in the lungs, which limits the flow of air out of the lungs. This narrowing can be reversed through medications and treatments.
Asthma is identified and recognized through the following symptoms:
Wheezing and whistling upon exhaling.
A severe persistent cough, especially at night.
Difficulty and tightness in breathing.
A feeling of tightness and heaviness in the chest.
A wheezing sound or cough when exercising (asthma that is triggered during physical exercise and sports training).
There are several factors that trigger asthma, including allergens, infections, physical exercise, cold air, changes in temperature, and cigarette smoking.
What Can I Do to Help My Child Avoid Asthma Attacks?
You can help your child avoid asthma attacks by keeping him away from the triggers and irritants that can provoke an asthma attack. The following are some examples of common causes and irritants:
- Air pollution
- Dust
- Mold
- Pollen
- Tobacco smoke
- Pet dander
- Physical exercise and sports training
- Changes in temperature
- Certain foods
- Aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications
- Sinus infections
- Perfumes
How Can I Tell If My Child’s Asthma Is Serious?
Asking the child to use a peak flow meter daily, which is used to detect minor and unnoticeable reductions in airflow to the lungs, is used by people with asthma and thus helps the supervising doctor monitor small changes in respiratory capacity. This device measures the rate of airflow from your child’s lungs. People who suffer from asthma have a lower level of airflow in and out of the lungs compared to other people. A peak flow meter can help you and the doctor determine how severe your child’s asthma attacks are. You will be able to know when your child needs to take medication or when they need to receive emergency care.
How Is a Peak Flow Meter Used?
In order to use a peak flow meter, your child must follow these steps:
- Move the indicator to the bottom of the numbered scale.
- Stand up.
- Take a deep breath.
- Close the lips around the mouthpiece of the peak flow meter that is placed in the mouth.
- Push air out with as much force and speed as possible.
