Asthma and Sports:
Preparing Your Child for a Healthy Season
 Just
because your child has asthma, it doesn't mean they have to sit
on the sidelines. In fact, playing sports and staying active not
only helps your child's self esteem, it can strengthen their lungs
as well. Here are some tips to help your child stay on the field
and off the bench.
Stay ahead of the game
Don't let asthma be the reason your child can't participate in
sports. If your child expresses an interest in a particular sport,
work with your pediatrician to come up with a plan in case an attack
occurs. This plan should also be shared with teachers as well. If
your child is the new kid in school, it is important to alert teachers
and the school nurse about his or her condition.
Because nobody else knows your child like you do, having an emergency
plan in place will help teachers be prepared if an asthma attack
should occur. Make sure your plan includes:
- The warning signs of an asthma attack. Because every
child is different, each child may display different warning signs.
It is very important you are specific about the signs and symptoms
of an oncoming attack.
- A list of all medications. Write out a list of all medications,
the dosages, how to use them, when to use them and where they
are kept. With the consent from a pediatrician, your child may
carry certain medications for emergency purposes.
- What to do if a serious attack occurs: It is a good idea
to write down the name and number of your child's doctor. Write
down the medications that should be administered during a serious
attack and specific directions about how to use them.
- When to seek emergency care: Write down the signs and
symptoms of a life-threatening attack and have list of emergency
numbers.
Be a good sport: Prevent asthma
attacks in your little athlete
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