Wellness Center

Asthma Emergencies in Children — What To Do

An asthma emergency occurs when there is increased shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, or a combination of these symptoms. Children often fear they'll suffocate. That fear can cause tension and shallow breathing. And that often makes it worse. Asthma symptoms can worsen over a few minutes or gradually over a few days. It's important to monitor symptoms closely.

What to Do for Your Child

• Take peak flow measurements to find out the severity of the attack. (A peak flow meter is a device that measures air flowing out of the lungs of a person with asthma. It can also reveal narrowing of the airways well in advance of an asthma attack.)

• Give your child asthma medication as instructed by your medical team. In most emergency situations, the symptoms will lessen with the proper use of medication and by staying away from asthma triggers. Serious symptoms often occur when medicines are not taken as prescribed.

• Take peak flow measurements again 15 minutes after the first time. Call a doctor if the symptoms are worse or not responding to regular medication. Follow directions rapidly and completely.

• Always stay calm, and help the child stay as calm as possible.

The Bottom Line

Be attentive to symptoms, and act before they become serious. These are the keys to controlling and/or preventing asthma attacks in children as well as in adults.

Sources:

1. What is asthma? National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.

2. Philpot EE. Asthma emergencies. Allergy and Asthma Magazine; 5(2).

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis of specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt professional medical attention if you have a particular concern about your health or specific symptoms. Wellsource, Inc. is not liable for any health consequences resulting from your use of this site.