What do I need to know about managing asthma in children?

It can be hard to tell if infants or very young children have asthma. A doctor may try using medicines for different conditions to see what works best and may find that asthma medicines are most effective.

Older children should help with their own treatment plan. They should learn what triggers to avoid and what to do if they should have an asthma attack. Children with mild to moderate asthma can still be active in sports, but must learn how to warm up before an activity and cool down afterwards. It may be necessary to take medicines before exercise. Parents should make sure the school has an asthma plan for their child, and that teachers and coaches are aware of their child's condition and medical needs.

To learn more:

For Parents With Children Who Have Asthma
(American Lung Association)
This site gives tips and facts on controlling asthma in children.
https://www.lung.org/lung-health-and-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/asthma/li
ving-with-asthma/managing-asthma/for-parents-of-children-with-asthma.html
Asthma and Physical Activity in the School: Making a Difference
(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
Asthmatics do not have to avoid exercise. Actually, controlled exercise is good for them. Learn how teachers can help children with asthma exercise safely.
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/files/docs/public/lung/phy_asth.pdf
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Managing Asthma in the School Environment
(Environmental Protection Agency (EPA))
Children spend much of their day in school. The Indoor Environments Division of the Environmental Protection Agency gives suggestions about managing asthma at school. It also offers plans for schools that want to improve their indoor air quality.
https://www.epa.gov/iaq-schools/managing-asthma-school-environment

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Written by: Lillian Trettin, Ph.D.
Reviewed by: Jeffrey G. Schultze, M.D.
Last Modified: Friday October 25, 2019 3:56 PM