(3 min read)
As children return to school in September, hospitalisations for asthma attacks peak. In the UK, emergency treatment needs double compared to August.
The 'September Surge' in asthma cases can be linked to various factors. Increased exposure to cold and flu viruses and the onset of cooler, damp weather may play a role. Additionally, reduced inhaler usage over the summer diminishes airway protection. Heightened emotions from new schools and routines, along with increased activity levels, further contribute to the instability in children's asthma during this time.
1. Encourage your child to maintain a routine with their preventer inhalers throughout the summer.
2. Ensure your child knows how to use their inhalers properly, including spacers if needed. Use videos for demonstrations.
3. Help create a Personalised Asthma Action Plan (PAAP) with their asthma nurse or GP.
4. Share the PAAP with your child's school and any activity clubs they attend.
5. Keep a copy on your phone to share with caregivers or family members. The PAAP includes information on triggers, medication use, and action steps for worsening asthma.
6.Provide the school with a spare inhaler for emergencies.
Here are some key indicators that asthma might be becoming unstable:
- Using the reliever inhaler three or more times a week.
- The reliever inhaler is not controlling symptoms for more than 4 hours.
- Coughing or wheezing at night or in the morning.
- Experiencing breathlessness while talking.
- Struggling to keep up with friends due to breathlessness.
- Developing a cold or being exposed to flu-like symptoms.
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