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Asthma
The following information was extracted from information leaflets published by the National Asthma Campaign.
What is Asthma?
Asthma, which is sometimes
described as wheezing, causes the airways in the lungs to narrow, making it
difficult to breath. Sudden narrowing produces what is usually called an attack
of asthma. Lesser or more persistent narrowing leads to less dramatic but more
frequent symptoms.
Asthma at school - a guide for parents
The
National Asthma Campaign can provide a School Pack which includes a draft
school policy, treatment information cards (to be filled in by the child's
doctor or nurse) and general information about the condition.
Avoiding asthma attacks
In the majority of cases
only the use of modern treatments will help to avoid the symptoms of asthma but
some of the triggers (allergies) can sometimes be avoided.
Grass polen can cause attacks from about late May to the end of July and children who are allergic to pollen may need to keep clear of flowering grass.
Certain school pets can trigger a child's asthma - remove furry or feathery animals from the classroom
Fumes from science experiments can provoke symptoms
Food allergy is rare, but if the doctor asks a child to avoid certain foods it is important to follow this advice and not to regard it as a 'food fad'.
When a Child with Asthma Joins Your Class
Ask the
parents about their child's asthma and current treatment. This information can
be recorded on a school card. If the child has severe asthma it may be helpful
for teachers to consult with the school nurse, or the child's own GP.
Allow the child easy access to their medication: do not lock it away in the school office. Even the slightest delay in taking medication can cause unnecessary distress and can be dangerous. Ideally, children should carry their own reliever inhaler. Most children above the age of seven or eight are able to decide when they need it.
Fighting Asthma Together is a video for schools, available from the National Asthma Campaign
National Asthma Campaign . Web site: http://www.asthma.org.uk