Childhood Asthma Natasha Cangelosi

What is Childhood Asthma? A respiratory disorder of the lungs and airways that affects twice as many boys as girls. Childhood asthma can not be cured and is usually inherited. This disorder can be brought on by allergies, foods such as nuts, wheat, milk, eggs, second-hand smoke, stress, vigorous exercise, and respiratory infections such as colds or bronchitis. (n.d.). Retrieved from news.injuryboard.com (n.d.). Retrieved from allergyimmune.com (n.d.). Retrieved from syncmed.com

Signs and Symptoms of Asthma There are many indications that a child is having an asthma attack or on the verge of having one. These signs and symptoms include: Wheezing Coughing Shortness of breath Tightness in the chest Difficulty exhaling Dizzy Lightheaded (n.d.). Retrieved from thaimedicalnews.com

Change filters often within the home How to manage Asthma There are many different factors that can trigger an asthma attack. For example, simple air borne particles or allergies to the outdoors can trigger an attack. To help prevent this and/or make it happen less frequently people should: Dust and vacuum often Change filters often within the home Use air purifiers to help get rid of particles in the air The use of inhalers or breathing treatments (n.d.). Retrieved from consumeraffairs.com (n.d.). Retrieved from running.competitor.com

How can a teacher handle this within the classroom? Many children have asthma within the school system. If a child is having an asthma attack within the classroom a teacher should: Allow the child to sit in a comfortable position that helps make breathing easier Remain calm and do not panic or get upset with the child Call for medical help Use the child’s inhaler if they have one Record what you see and experience so that it is on record and you will be prepared for the next time (n.d.). Retrieved from worldofstock.com

Teacher Modifications For any teacher that has a child with asthma in his/her classroom there are some things they can do to help prevent an attack. These include: Making sure that the tables and equipment within the classroom is dusted and clean Sending home an allergy form with the children to keep on file in the classroom. This way a teacher can be aware of any known allergies. This will help with snacks, materials, and environments within the classroom. If children have allergies outside they can have an alternate form of exercise and play whether it is inside the gymnasium or another room that allows them to move. Children with exercise induced asthma have attacks when performing strenuous exercises or running. Watch the children and monitor their play.

Works Cited Marotz, L. R. (2009). Health, safety, and nutrition for the young child. Delmar: Cengage Learning. Mayo Clinic Staff. (2010, September 21). Childhood asthma. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/childhood-asthma/DS00849