Asthma

What is asthma? Asthma is a disease that effects the

respiratory system, causing difficulty in breathing.

Asthma causes the airways in the lungs to become blocked and narrowed.

Two types of asthma have been classified:

1. Allergic

2. Non-Allergic

Allergic Asthma Allergic asthma, also known as extrinsic

asthma, is characterized by being a result of an allergic reaction.

During allergic asthma, the airway is obstructed and inflamed.

It is the most common form and effects more than 50% of those who have asthma.

This is partially reversible with medication. It is triggered by dust mites, pet dander,

pollen, mold, etc.

Non-Allergic Asthma Non-allergic asthma, also known as

intrinsic asthma, is not triggered by athletes.

It also deals with an obstructed airway and inflammation and can also be treated with medication.

Non-allergic asthma is mostly triggered by stress, anxiety, exercise, smoke, etc.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms include: Wheezing Coughing Difficulty and/or rapid breathing Tightness in the chest Swelling and spasms of the respiratory

tract Collection of mucus

How to Keep It In Check Fortunately, as their air passage increases

with age, many children outgrow asthma attacks.

Frequent dusting and vacuuming helps with airborne allergies.

Air purifiers also help to clear the air of allergens.

Medications in the forms of inhalers or aerosol breathing treatments can be administered.

As A Teacher… As a teacher, it is important to remember

that this a common condition, especially in young children. It is necessary to be mindful of those who are effect by asthma and those who may need to take a break during activities. As a teacher, you are responsible for the child’s well-being during the day, so be aware of the children who may need inhalers or medications.

ReferencesMarotz, L. R. (2009). Health, safety, and nutrition for the young child (7th ed., pp. 104-107). Delmar.

Asthma and Allergy Foundation of Americahttp://www.aafa.org/display.cfm?id=8&sub=14