Research Paper On Asthma

Asthma is a chronic breathing problem that affects nearly 5 million children in the United States. It is caused by swelling and closing of the airways inside the lungs which makes it hard to breathe. There are many reasons that kids can have asthma "attacks". These things are called triggers; some triggers might consist of: Pollen from trees, grass, and other types of plants. Also; mold, dust, weather changes, perfume, pet fur, smoke and exercise. There are many more things that can trigger asthma. When you have an asthma attack the muscles around the airways tighten making the airways smaller which causes you to have difficulty breathing. Asthma does not have a cure but there are many methods to keeping your asthma under control. Taking your medication as directed and knowing when you are having an asthma attack are the two most important things you can do to keep control of your asthma.

There are many symptoms you can see in your child who has asthma. When these symptoms appear, it is important to be proactive and seek medical attention. Some asthma symptoms may include: coughing that gets worse at night, wheezing, shortness of breath, or tightness in your chest. It is

important that your child knows what triggers their asthma and also has a quick relief inhaler and spacer in case of an asthma attack.
After seeking your doctor, they will create and asthma plan of action for your child.

Its is a plan for your child to follow to keep their asthma under control. This plan is individualized to each patient. Your child will be prescribed bronchodilator medication. Bronchodilators open your airways. They relax the muscles around the airways that get tight during an asthma attack. If exercise causes symptoms for you, take a quick relief medicine 15 minutes before exercise. There are two types of this medication: Metered dose inhalers (with spacers) and Nebulizers. Like all medication, bronchodilators can cause side effects. Some may include: increased heart rate, jitteriness, and nausea. If your side effects continue 15-20 minutes after administration, consult your

doctor.
Taking your medication and taking it correctly is very important to control your asthma. You should always use a spacer whenever you use a metered dose inhaler. If you do not use a spacer, the medicine may end up on your tongue, on the back of your throat, or in the air which causes you to not get the full amount needed. A spacer holds the medicine in its chamber long enough for you to inhale slowly. Knowing how to use a metered dose inhaler and spacer is very important, you should: 1.)Remove the cap on the inhaler and hold it upright, 2.) Shake the inhaler to mix the medication, 3.) Inhale and breathe out, 4.) place the mouthpiece in your mouth, 5.) push one puff of medicine into the spacer and then inhale slowly, 6.) hold your breath for 10 seconds after to allow the medication to spread then breathe out slowly through your nose. It is important to always wait a minute in between puffs if ordered to do more than one by the doctor. Clean your inhaler and spacer weekly to prevent buildup and clogging.
In conclusion, it is important to stay on top of your treatment plan to keep control of your asthma. Make sure to bring your action plan and peak flow meter sheet to each visit with your healthcare provider so they are able to view your progress or if something should be changed in your treatment. Asthma can become a serious problem if not treated correctly. If you keep up with your medication schedule or know what to do in case of an emergency, you can live everyday life without having fear of an attack.