Pediatric Asthma: Tips for Management and Prevention

Does your child have asthma? The team at Mid Kansas Pediatric Associates of Wichita and Derby, KS, is committed to helping them live a healthy and fulfilling life. 

Tips for Management and Prevention of Pediatric Asthma 

 Asthma is a chronic condition associated with lung inflammation. It can cause children to have a very hard time breathing and can be fatal. However, attacks can also be managed and prevented. The team at Mid Kansas Pediatric Associates at Wichita and Derby, KS, share tips for helping your child below. 

Understanding Potential Triggers 

 Knowing what causes your child’s condition to flare up is essential in preventing attacks. In many cases, the respiratory condition is triggered by colds or allergies. Other potential triggers include: 

• Smoke or vape 
• Mold and dust
• Pests 
• Weather changes 
• Pet dander 
• Strong odors 
• Cleaning products 

 In some cases, triggers can be obvious. In others, it takes a little more investigation. Working with your child’s pediatrician can help you identify your child’s triggers and develop a plan to avoid them. 

Steps for Prevention and Management 

 The following are some of the most important steps for preventing and managing your child’s condition. 

Aim to Avoid Triggers

 Your child’s specific triggers play a vital role in preventing attacks. However, the following tips are some good practices to follow. 

• Keep your home clean and smoke-free. Wash their bed covers and vacuum at least once a week.
• If you have pests, talk to your local pest control company to learn if they have products safe for use in a home with asthma. 
• Avoid being outdoors when the pollen count is high.
• Avoid using products in the home that have strong odors and use gentle cleansers. 

Keep Your Child Active 

 Being overweight has been linked to an increased risk of asthma, so it’s important to keep your child active. Be sure to work with your pediatrician on this, though, as your child might need to take medication before play or exercise.

Have a Plan in Place and Medication on Hand 

 Anyone caring for your child should know what to do in case of an attack. Have a written plan that you are all familiar with. Always send medication, inhalers, or nebulizers with your child everywhere they go, and be sure that you and any caregivers know how to use them. Also, make sure that everyone can recognize the signs of an attack so that they can respond immediately and properly.

Let our team at Mid Kansas Pediatric Associates of Wichita and Derby, KS, help you and your child actively and effectively manage their asthma by calling (316) 634-2000 in East Wichita, (316) 773-3100 in West Wichita, and (316) 719-2001 in Derby to schedule an appointment.