Tips for Kids With Asthma

WASHINGTON – Asthma-related illness is one of the most common reasons children miss school. Nearly 11 percent of school aged children have asthma and collectively miss nearly 13 millions days in the classroom. To health ensure a safe and healthy school year for asthmatic children, the American Lung Association has a seven-step checklist for parents: -

Schedule an Asthma Check-up Doctor's Appointment

: Even if your child's asthma is well managed, schedule a check up with your pediatrician at least once a year. Be sure their asthma prescriptions are current and that you are prepared to best manage his or her symptoms. This is also an opportunity to evaluate other medications and physical activity restrictions. -

Confirm Medicines Are Up-to-Date and Fill Prescriptions

: If your child uses an inhaler, ensure you have a current prescription for an HFA inhaler. Check your medicine cabinet to ensure your child's asthma prescriptions have sufficient refills available and have not expired. -

Asthma Action Plan

: All students with asthma should have a written Asthma Action Plan that details personal information about the child's asthma symptoms, medications, any physical activity limitations and provides specific instructions about what to do if an asthma attack does not improve with prescribed medication. -

Advocate for Your Child

: Learn if your child's school allows students to carry and independently administer their asthma medication. Some schools require students to carry a note from their doctor. Find out what steps need to be taken to have your child carry and use their inhaler if that’s what their doctor recommends. -

Visit Your Child's School Nurse and Teachers

: All of the student's teachers, coaches, as well as the school nurse and/or office should have a current copy of their Asthma Action Plan. Discuss with your child's teachers specific triggers and typical symptoms so that they can be prepared to effectively assist your child should an asthma attack occur during the school day. -

Know Your School's Asthma Emergency Plan

: Ensure that your child's school knows how to contact you incase of an emergency. If possible, find out the school's history of dealing with asthma episodes. Confirm that staff, including coaches and bus drivers, have been trained in responding to asthma emergencies. -

Know About Prescription Assistance Services

: If you need financial assistance, two organizations are available to help: The Partnership for Prescription Assistance (1-888-4PPA-NOW) and Rx Outreach (http://www.rxoutreach.com). No one should have to do without their asthma medications because of financial need. Parents should also be aware that per government regulation manufacturers are phasing out production of a common type of albuterol inhaler, often called a CFC inhaler. By December 31, 2008, CFC inhalers will not be available to the consumer public and will be replaced by an HFA inhaler. The FDA has found that HFA inhalers are safe and just as effective as their CFC counterparts. One significant difference is that HFA inhalers do not contain ozone-depleting chemicals found in CFC inhalers. "Some kids might find their new inhaler has a slightly different taste or feel," said Norman Edelman, MD, Chief Medical Officer of the American Lung Association. "Also be aware that your pharmacy won't be able to simply substitute the new HFA inhaler for your existing CFC inhaler prescription. Your child's doctor will need to write a new prescription." For additional information on asthma and children, visit http://www.californialung.org or http://www.lungusa.org.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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