ASTHMA

ASTHMA

OBJECTIVES• The participant will be able to

– Distinguish between normal breathing patterns and signs of asthma

– Identify and address asthma triggers– Effectively use an Asthma Action Plan and

Individual Care Plan– Demonstrate awareness of asthma

treatment methods

RATE: 18 – 24 breaths per minute

EASY/QUIET

NORMAL POSTURE

NORMAL BREATHING

ANATOMY

A chronic lung condition characterized by difficulty in breathing.

Airways become blocked or narrowed

Bronchoconstriction

Airway Inflammation

Photo from Managing Asthma in Ohio Child Care Facilities

WHAT IS ASTHMA?

EARLY SIGNS OF ASTHMACough

Difficulty Talking

Gasping for Air

Wheezing

Restlessness

Rapid breathing

May come on suddenly or after treatment

Seek help immediately if:

Struggling to breathe

lips or fingernails turn blue or gray

retractions

WARNING SIGNS

• THIS SLIDE WILL BE A PICTURE OF SOMEONE EXPERIENCING SYMPTOMS

Activities, conditions or substances that cause the airways to react and signs of

asthma to occur

TRIGGERS

Dust Mites

Mold

Pets

Allergens

Pollen

Pests

TRIGGERS

Sprays and

Strong Odors

Irritants

Tobacco smoke

Air pollution

Fumes from household products

TRIGGERS

Others

Illness and infection

Emotions

Changes in temperature

Exercise

TRIGGERS

Avoid/Eliminate Triggers

Even if currently symptom-free, lungs are sensitive.

The more often child is exposed to triggers, the more often symptoms will occur.X

X

X

ASTHMA MANAGEMENT

ASTHMA MANAGEMENT

Medications

Long-term control (Preventers)

Quick Relief (Rescue)

ASTHMA MANAGEMENT

Asthma Action (Care) PlanOriginates in the medical home

Clearly describes steps to take if child is experiencing symptoms

Provides guidance to help manage the child’s asthma

ASTHMA MANAGEMENT

From Managing Asthma in Ohio Child Care Facilities

The Lung Association, www.lung.ca

American Lung Association, www.lungusa.org

Ohio Department of Health in Collaboration with the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, Healthy Child Care Ohio, the Ohio Asthma Coalition and the American Lung Association of Ohio, Managing Asthma in Ohio Child Care Facilities

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, www.aaaai.org

Kids Health for Parents, www.kidshealth.org

REFERENCES