Chronic Disorders Asthma Diabetes Seizure Disorder

Asthma  #1 chronic disease of school-aged children  Affects 1-2 students in an average classroom  The leading cause of school absences due to chronic illness. (80 million school days lost each year.)  Mortality rates have increased over 72% since 1970.

Asthma  An inflammatory lung disease characterized by recurrent breathing problems –The muscles that surround the airways can become tight, producing muscle spasms. –The inner lining of the airways may swell. –There can be an increase in mucous production and/or inflammation (within the trachea, bronchi, and/or the lungs).

Asthma Triggers  Allergens (animal dander, dust, mites, molds, pollens, foods-especially seafood & peanuts, etc.)  Lung irritants (tobacco smoke, leaf burning smoke, perfume, chalk, dust, etc.)  Weather changes  Infections (colds, sinus infections, etc.)  Exercise and overexertion  Excitement

Early Warning Signs of an Asthma Attack  Coughing with no cold  Wheezing (however light), especially upon exhaling  Fast/irregular breathing  Upset stomach  Tickly throat  Anxiousness

Severe Symptoms of Asthma  Student stops wheezing, especially with other symptoms.  Increased anxiety  Increased effort to breathe  Worsening of any early warning signs

Immediate Treatment  Treatment should match the severity of the symptoms.  Teacher needs to remain calm!  Calm child/relaxation helps  Administer (warm) fluids if possible  Remove from the area/stop activity  Get school nurse/appointed medical personnel. FOLLOW SCHOOL POLICY!  Teacher should make medications available (as directed by school policy), note dosage, time of administration, and any side effects.

Diabetes  A chronic illness in which the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin, and/or when insulin cell receptors are defective, an excess of sugar is carried throughout the blood stream.

Diabetes – Symptoms  Initial symptoms generally include weight loss, visual disorders, increased thirst/hunger, frequent urination, fatigue, irritability, and nausea.  If left untreated over time, this excess in sugar levels can cause permanent visual problems, organ damage (especially to the kidneys), cardiovascular disorders, and possible death.

Type I Diabetes  Also known as juvenile diabetes  Requires daily insulin injections and sometimes oral medication.  Caused by recessive gene that may become activated after an illness, such as strep or mono, especially during a growth spurt (age 5-6, 10-11, etc.).

Type I Diabetes  Considered an autoimmune disorder whereby the white blood cells attack the pancreas (beta cells) that normally produce insulin. The beta cells will become completely destroyed generally within a year, requiring insulin shots/pump/inhaler.

Type II Diabetes  Also known as adult onset diabetes  Generally treated with diet, exercise, and oral medications.  Most experts consider it preventable.

Diabetes  Normal blood sugar levels average from  A level of up to 140 is generally considered acceptable for an insulin dependent diabetic.

Diabetes – First Aid  Insulin shock – Too much insulin (giving a shot with too much insulin; lack of activity; not eating for a long period of time; etc.)  Also known as low blood sugar (blood sugar levels less than 80).  Symptoms: irritability (cry, belligerent, etc.), hungry (especially a craving for sweets), perspire excessively, trembling, dizzy/disoriented/pale, pulse is generally full and normal.  This condition is potentially life threatening.

Diabetes – First Aid  First Aid:  Follow school policy for treating child.  The policy will most likely involve giving the person a carbohydrate such as a sugar cube, soda, candy, raisins, prescribed candy.  Symptoms should subside within minutes.

Diabetes – First Aid  Diabetic Coma – too little insulin (failure to take insulin shot; not having enough insulin with shot; over-activity; illness; improper diet of sugars, alcohol, etc.)  High blood sugar – blood sugar levels above 240. Levels exceeding 300 can cause kidney and cardiovascular damage.

Diabetes – First Aid  Symptoms: pulse weak and rapid, thirsty, frequent urination, flushed face, vomiting/nausea, labored breathing, craving for sweets, irritable  This condition is not immediately life threatening but can result in kidney damage, eye damage, nerve damage, heart damage, etc., over an extended period of time (years).

Diabetes – First Aid  First Aid:  Follow school policy for treating the child.  The policy should involve the following: making sure that the student rests; maintaining body temperature; letting the student (or medical staff) administer an insulin shot; seeking medical attention.

Diabetes  Teachers should also:  Note when insulin was administered (if applicable).  Note the last time the student ate/activity level.  Become familiar with the use of a glucose meter.