It might be particularly difficult to explain asthma to children because it can be difficult to understand even for adults. However, giving your child an understandable explanation of asthma could boost their self-assurance in handling illness. Explaining asthma to kids can be done in a simple and reassuring way. You can begin by explaining to them that asthma is a lung disease that can occasionally make breathing difficult for certain people. Describe how air enters and exits our lungs through tiny tubes called airways. Asthma triggers, such as dust, dogs, or cold weather, can cause these airways to become somewhat narrower or obstructed.

Remind kids that although asthma may make breathing more difficult, it can be controlled with medication and other medical assistance, so they shouldn’t be afraid. Remind them that many people with asthma lead normal, healthy lives when they adhere to their treatment plan and encourage them to ask questions. Asthma Bhawan provides a helpful guide for explaining asthma to kids in a simple and caring way. It is crucial to simplify the knowledge into concepts that are simple to comprehend. It is possible to explain to kids that asthma is similar to having sensitive airways in their lungs, which can restrict and make breathing difficult.

It’s crucial to clarify that although asthma may occasionally cause dyspnea, it’s nothing to be scared of. Asthma can be managed with the correct care, such as using an inhaler or taking medicine. To assist children realize that maintaining their therapy will keep them feeling well, the handbook urges parents to discuss asthma with their children as a regular part of life.

How Asthma Affects Breathing

Your chest has two lungs, each of which has several airways. For you to breathe, the lungs must transfer air into and out of your body. Asthma sufferers have delicate airways that can become constricted and swollen. Your breathing may become difficult as a result, and you may cough or whistle. This makes your lungs unhappy, and can make you unhappy too.

Teach them About Their Asthma Triggers 

Triggers are a variety of factors that can cause your asthma symptoms to flare up. Your ability to control your asthma will improve as you get more knowledge about them. Some things that might be an Asthma trigger are running (playing sports), cold air, colds/flu, dust, pollen, flowers, smoke, grasses and dust mites.

Explain an Asthma Attack 

Breathlessness, coughing, a constricted chest, or a wheezing sound can all be symptoms of asthmatic lung and airway dysfunction. We refer to this as an asthma attack. When a flare-up is severe or occurs quickly, it may be referred to as an asthma attack. It’s acceptable if this occurs because it may feel frightening. When you have trouble breathing, it might be frightening since you may have to take a lot of breaths to speak. 

You can get through an asthma flare-up or asthma attack by knowing what to do. The asthma medication that your doctor prescribes for you is outlined in your Asthma Action Plan. A copy of this should be given to your parents, caregivers, and other careers. Your grandparents, teachers, or sports coach may fall under this category. Your Asthma Action Plan will have your instructions for Asthma First Aid. 

Talk About Their Medication

• Reliever

We offer this one to assist you feel better soon if you are experiencing problems breathing. The blue/grey “reliever” puffer that most kids have is called “salbutamol.” It works in a matter of minutes to quickly open your airways. It is used in Asthma First Aid and when you experience symptoms of asthma. It is sometimes used before your exercise or sport. Your physician may advise you to take it more frequently during a cold or asthma attack. About four hours should pass during it.

It is important to use your puffer with a spacer the right way. Small children 4 or under should also use a mask attached to their spacer.

• Preventer

A preventer is a second puffer that some kids have. This is frequently red or orange, although it can be many different colors. It all depends on what your doctor thinks will work best for you. This medicine is a ‘corticosteroid’. Its function is to relax your lungs, making them less susceptible to your triggers. The medication reduces internal swelling and redness in the airways. Your lungs are a lot happier as a result.

To assist your lungs deal with everything that could irritate them, you must take this medication daily. After you’re feeling better, you shouldn’t skip it because it takes about two to four weeks to operate properly. Otherwise, the redness and sensitivity can come back.

Doctors are our Friends

It’s crucial to see a doctor so they can examine your asthma and ensure that you are taking the proper medications and taking the necessary measures. Sometimes your doctor might want to listen to your chest with a stethoscope. It helps them detect symptoms of asthma, but it can feel cold when they place it on your chest and back.

In other cases, they may send you to a specific clinic to do this test or ask you to blow into a tube to examine your lungs. They may inquire about the times you experience the symptoms of your asthma. All of this is done to assist them in understanding what your lungs need. You and your parents/caregivers collaborate with your physician to create your asthma action plan.

Why do I Have Asthma?

We are unable to pinpoint the exact cause of your asthma. It might be for one of the following reasons, or for another cause entirely:

• Being around lots of air pollution or cigarette smoke from a young age.
• Being around things you are allergic to or sensitive to.
• If mum or dad has asthma, it tends to run in families.

At the moment there is no cure for asthma. As kids become older, asthma can sometimes get better, but other times it stays the same or even gets worse. Fortunately, science has produced many excellent medications that can benefit you.

FAQs

What is Asthma?

The disease known as asthma causes the airways in your lungs to constrict or swell, making breathing more difficult. It can happen when certain things like dust or pets make the airways react.

Why do I need medicine for asthma?

The medication facilitates easy breathing by keeping your airways open. It’s similar to helping your lungs when they need it.

Can Asthma go away?

Although asthma never totally goes away, it can be managed and a healthy life can be led with the correct treatment and medication. 

How can I avoid asthma problems?

Avoid things that make your asthma worse, such as smoke, dust, and animals. Also, always carry your inhaler if your doctor says you need one.

What should I do if I can’t breathe?

Inform an adult right away if you are experiencing difficulty breathing. They can assist you in improving the way you utilize your medication or inhaler.