Keeping Active with Asthma

Asthma is a condition that affects nearly 1 in every 11 children and 1 in every 12 adults.

It has been known to be a leading reason to miss work and school. Common symptoms include:

• coughing
• wheezing
• shortness of breath
• tightness in chest
• trouble breathing 

Around this time of year little league sports have started ups. Parents of children with asthma may be concerned if their child should participate or not. The first thing that these parents should do and most likely all ready have is to make their self aware of what allergies are common. For example is the pollen count high?? The time of day as well as weather can make the count higher than at other times Therefore, knowing this information your child's coach should be aware that they may not make all practices. 

In addition a few other tips include:

• ensuring that the child takes their allergy medications and pack an emergency inhaler
•   Keep a copy of emergency instructions in their bag and give one to the coach explaining steps to take if an asthma attack occurs. 
• It is always important to educate your child on what their triggers are 
• directly after practice or game children with asthma must take a shower and change clothes so that they do not become bothered with pollen that may come in with them. 

When you and your child decide what sport if any to play keep in mind that some sports your child will be better fit for than others. With proper training and medication your child can participate in any sport that the doctor agrees they can play However, if emergencies do occur remember to stay calm and watch for signs such as 

• after taking asthma medication child's wheezing or coughing does not improve
• the child's chest or neck starts pulling in while they struggle to breathe
• child has trouble walking or talking
• child's fingernails or lips  turn blue or gray
• while the child is breathing their ribs start to suck in

Because asthma is different for every person the signs above are general signs that often occur in emergency situations. 

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