Asthma Janet Blair. Healthy Start In Child Care

Asthma Facts Chronic problem that usually lasts a lifetime. Usually diagnosed by age of 3. May improve or go away permanently around puberty and early adulthood. NO cure, but treatment is available. All people who have allergies, are not asthmatics. More common among lower socioeconomic groups.

Asthma Statistics Over 17 million Americans. Over 35% are children. Rate doubled b/tn 1980 & Medical bills $ higher a year for asthmatic children.

Increase in Disease Rate doubled b/tn 1980 & Why?

A Working Definition A lung disease in which the airways are so sensitive they sometimes become blocked, making breathing difficult. These episodes are called “attacks”.

Symptoms Coughing Shortness of breath Chest tightness Wheezing

Triggers Infections Exercise Weather Strong Emotions Allergens

Infections Viral is worst Breastfeeding increases baby’s resistance Flu and pneumonia vaccines Avoid people with colds At sign of infection, call M.D.

Exercise Swimming is good Premedicate Overexertion –Running upstairs –Carrying heavy loads –Jogging –Playing team sports

Weather Cold air Cover mouth and nose in winter Seasonal pollens Summer heat and air pollution

Strong Emotions Laughing Crying Yelling Fear

Allergens Cockroaches Dust mites Pollen Mold spores Pet dander Cigarettes

Cockroaches Droppings Cockroaches love: –Warmth –Food –Water –Newspapers –Paper/Grocery bags –Garbage

Dust Mites 80% of asthmatic children are allergic to dust mites Droppings Hatch every 3 weeks Mites love: –Humidity –Pillows/comforters/ mattresses –Carpet

Pollen Early Spring: Trees Late Spring & Early Summer: Grasses Late Summer & Fall: Weeds Launder curtains/rugs Dust/vacuum weekly Avoid outdoor activity

Mold Dark damp places Basements, attics, bathrooms, insulation, and refrigerators Launder bath mats & shower curtains Use exhaust fans Repair leaks

Pet Dander Avoid furry/feathered pets MUST: –Keep pet out of bedroom –Brush and bathe pet weekly –Launder pet beds weekly –Dust and vacuum weekly

Cigarette Smoke Don’t smoke while pregnant Don’t smoke in the house Launder clothes DON’T SMOKE AROUND CHILDREN

Treatments Pills Inhalers and accessories Nebulizers

Long-Term Medicines Long-Term Medicine Prevents Attacks Take daily Anti-inflammatory –Cromolyn –Corticosteroids

Quick Relief Medicines Act quickly Relieve asthma attack Use only as needed or before exercise Bronchodilators –Theophylline –Inhaled/oral bronchodilators

Inhalers Many times children and adults do not use the inhalers properly Always instruct person to exhale completely then press inhaler as inhale. Must get medication into lungs DEMO

Wrong Way Do Not Put Inhaler In Mouth

Right Way Place 2 fingers in front of mouth and place inhaler at that point

Cleaning and Use Once a day clean inhaler and cap by rinsing in warm running water. Twice a week wash plastic mouthpiece with mild soap and warm water. Rinse and dry well.

Other Designs If it squeaks…. They’re inhaling too fast

Newest Designs

Nebulizers Often used with young children Make sure all medication has been received Don’t leave infant alone

School Days Always document Keep records Talk with parents daily ER visits