Asthma is serious
It can be a killer so close monitoring of children is essential
ASTHMA is a common condition among children, with now between 9 and 10% suffering from the inflammatory disease.
Wheezing, coughing and struggling to breathe are some of the most common indicators for someone with asthma.
National Asthma Council Australia respiratory educator Judi Wicking said the condition could affect a child in many ways.
“One of the problems is that their lungs are not in good shape which can affect their growth and development. They could struggle to run and play if it is not well controlled and they may lose concentration at school if it’s
Judi Wicking:
If there is any suspicion there is asthma, organise a check-up
waking them up at night.”
She said parents needed to be good observers for indicators their child might have asthma.
“If there is any suspicion there is asthma, organise a check-up with your doctor for a thorough examination. Some of the symptoms can be mistaken with other things, so it needs to be a clear diagnosis,” Ms Wicking said.
Close monitoring is essential for the condition, which causes the airways to become narrow.
“People think everybody’s got it and some people don’t take it too seriously. This is a serious condition and people can die from asthma but we know most deaths are preventable.”
A new handbook for people diagnosed with asthma provides up-to-date information and advice. It provides advice around managing asthma, preventer and reliever medications, and asthma first aid, as well as giving a checklist of questions people with asthma should be asking their health professionals.
“It gives a really good overview of asthma management,” Ms Wicking said.