When you have a child who has asthma, their health care needs are going to be different than those of other children. But, just because your child has asthma, it doesn’t mean that you have to panic every time there is the slightest issue with their breathing. You need to learn about this condition, and know what to do in case of an asthma attack. Here are 10 tips for raising a child with asthma.
1. Know the Asthma Triggers
There are a number of triggers for asthma attacks, and for each person who has this condition, the triggers are different. You need to watch your child so that you come to learn what triggers their attacks. That way, you can control the frequency of attacks, at least somewhat. You may need to get special medications, such as inhalers or nasal sprays, to help when there are attacks.
2. Keep an Asthma Diary
As you notice certain triggers, symptoms, etc. of your child’s asthma, start writing them down. This is going to help you to better pinpoint the triggers of asthma attacks. Once you identify a problem, you can work to find a way to get rid of it and help your child breathe better.
3. Get an Asthma Doctor
In addition to your regular pediatrician, you should take your child to visit a doctor who specializes in treating patients with asthma. They will be able to prescribe the best medications, and help you and your child to manage their asthma.
4. Keep the House Clean
It is important to keep a very clean house when there is someone living there who has asthma. Make sure that all bedding is washed at least once each week. It is a good idea to get rid of carpeting and rugs, and install hardwood flooring or tiles. Carpets aren’t bad for asthmatics, but the dirt they can hold is.
5. Keep the Air Moist
During the cold, dry winter months, the air can cause those who have asthma to cough more. This is going to increase inflammation, which in turn will lead to asthma attacks. Be sure to use a humidifier in your home in order to avoid this problem.
6. Make Sure they Drink Lots of Water
The more water an asthma sufferer drinks, the better. When your child drinks plenty of water, their lungs will stay hydrated. This is going to help keep them clear, and ease the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.
7. Don’t Have any Pets
One of the worst things you can do when you have a child with asthma is to have pets in the home. While your child may really want a pet, the hair, dander, and saliva can have major effects on asthma sufferers. If you are going to have pets, make sure that they do not have access to your child’s bedroom.
8. Give them Vitamin C
Vitamin C is important for everyone, especially asthma sufferers. Make sure that your child gets plenty of vitamin C in their diet, either through fruits and other foods high in the vitamin, or through nutritional supplements.
9. Don’t Smoke in the House
This one is a no-brainer. Smoke is a huge trigger of asthma attacks, and it just isn’t good for anyone. Make sure that no one smokes in your home, your car, or anywhere else where your child is going to be. Remember, second-hand smoke is a lot worse for everyone than actually smoking, and it is even worse for asthma sufferers.
10. Watch their Diet
It is important for asthma sufferers to follow healthy, well-balanced diets. Try to eliminate food additives from your child’s diet, and don’t allow a lot of fried foods. This is especially important when asthma is flaring up.
