Asthma at School
- Due No due date
- Points 4
- Questions 4
- Time Limit None
- Allowed Attempts Unlimited
Instructions
Asthma is a respiratory illness. Asthma makes it difficult to breathe because the airways in the lungs get inflamed, smaller, and filled with mucus. In asthma, air doesn't move through the lungs the way it normally should. It has a harder time passing through swollen and mucous filled airways. The bronchial muscles tighten and make the airways narrower. Some people say that it feels like they are breathing through a straw. Have you ever tried that before?? It is not easy!
Asthma is a condition that can be well managed so that kids can do the things they love. Some asthma kids just need to avoid their triggers. Others may need to be on medication(s) they take everyday (controller medications). Speaking of triggers, what are some triggers that make cause an asthma attack or flare up?
*cigarette smoke *pollen *strong odors (perfume, chemicals) *animals *exercise * strong emotions *viral infections *weather changes *pollution
An asthma attack or flare up can be a life threatening event. If a student is experiencing an asthma attack do not leave them alone to get help. Like the video said, it's good to be aware of signs and symptoms of an asthma attack. Those can include:
*cough *shortness of breath *fast breathing *chest tightness *wheezing
During an asthma attack a rescue inhaler may be used. Most often it is an albuterol inhaler. Some students will self carry their inhaler (usually in their backpack). Some will have it stored in the nurses office. They may or may not need a spacer to help deliver their medication. Usually the younger kids will have a spacer. Sometimes it's hard to coordinate pushing the inhaler while inhaling at the same time. The spacer just ensures they receive the whole dose.
If these asthma students need medical accommodations in the classroom, they might be on an IHP (Individualized Health Plan). Sometimes they just need to take a break, be allowed to try and calm their breathing, stop their activity, decrease their PE exertion or even sit out of certain activities.