Taking Asthma to School: A Comprehensive Guide for Students, Parents, and Educators

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of children and adolescents worldwide. It can cause wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. While asthma cannot be cured, it can be managed with proper medication and lifestyle changes. For children and adolescents, school is an important part of their lives. It is where they learn, socialize, and develop their skills. However, asthma can make it challenging for children to participate fully in school activities.

This guide provides comprehensive information about taking asthma to school. It covers topics such as:

• The symptoms and triggers of asthma
• The different types of asthma medications
• How to create an asthma action plan
• How to use an inhaler and spacer
• How to monitor peak flow rates
• The role of the school nurse
• Accommodations that can be made for students with asthma
• Support for students with asthma

The symptoms of asthma can vary from person to person. Some of the most common symptoms include:

Taking Asthma to School

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2770 KB
Print length	:	28 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Chest tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid breathing
• Fatigue
• Difficulty sleeping

Asthma symptoms can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:

• Allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander
• Irritants, such as smoke, pollution, and strong odors
• Exercise
• Cold air
• Stress

There are two main types of asthma medications: controllers and relievers.

• Controllers are taken daily to prevent asthma symptoms. They work by reducing inflammation in the airways.
• Relievers are used to quickly relieve asthma symptoms when they occur. They work by opening up the airways.

There are a variety of different controller and reliever medications available. Your doctor will work with you to determine which medications are right for you.

An asthma action plan is a written plan that outlines how to manage your asthma symptoms. It should include:

• A list of your asthma symptoms
• A list of your asthma triggers
• Instructions on how to take your asthma medications
• Instructions on what to do if your asthma symptoms get worse

Your doctor will help you create an asthma action plan. It is important to keep your asthma action plan with you at all times.

An inhaler is a device that delivers medication directly to the lungs. A spacer is a device that helps to deliver the medication more effectively.

To use an inhaler with a spacer, follow these steps:

1. Shake the inhaler well.
2. Remove the cap from the inhaler and spacer.
3. Place the inhaler into the spacer.
4. Close your lips around the mouthpiece of the spacer.
5. Press down on the inhaler once and inhale slowly and deeply.
6. Hold your breath for 5-10 seconds.
7. Repeat steps 5-6 until you have taken all of the medication.

A peak flow meter is a device that measures how fast you can exhale. It can be used to monitor your asthma and identify when your asthma is getting worse.

To use a peak flow meter, follow these steps:

1. Hold the peak flow meter in one hand.
2. Place your lips around the mouthpiece.
3. Take a deep breath and blow into the peak flow meter as hard and fast as you can.
4. Record your peak flow rate.

Your doctor will tell you what your normal peak flow rate is. If your peak flow rate drops below your normal range, it is a sign that your asthma is getting worse and you need to take action.

The school nurse plays an important role in supporting students with asthma. School nurses can:

• Provide asthma education to students and staff
• Help students develop and implement their asthma action plans
• Administer asthma medications
• Monitor students' peak flow rates
• Provide support to students with asthma

There are a number of accommodations that can be made for students with asthma. These accommodations can help students to participate fully in school activities. Some of the most common accommodations include:

• Allowing students to carry their inhalers with them at all times
• Providing a quiet place for students to use their inhalers
• Allowing students to leave class for a few minutes to use their inhalers
• Providing students with extra time to complete assignments
• Modifying physical activity requirements for students with asthma

There are a number of support resources available for students with asthma. These resources can help students to manage their asthma and succeed in school. Some of the most common support resources include:

• The American Lung Association
• The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
• The National Jewish Health Center

These organizations provide a variety of resources, including information about asthma, support groups, and educational materials.

Asthma can be a challenging condition, but it is one that can be managed. With proper medication, lifestyle changes, and support, children and adolescents with asthma can live full and active lives

Taking Asthma to School

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2770 KB
Print length	:	28 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE