Navigating Asthma in Children and Adolescents: A Guide for Parents

Welcome to Wandering Health, where we prioritise the well-being of your child's respiratory health. Today, we delve into a prevalent condition affecting many children and adolescents: asthma. As a specialised paediatric physiotherapy clinic, we understand the challenges asthma poses and are here to offer guidance on managing it effectively.

Incidence of Asthma in Children:

Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions in children worldwide, affecting approximately 5-10% of children globally. In some regions, its prevalence is even higher. This respiratory condition can manifest at any age, but it often begins in childhood. Understanding the incidence and prevalence of asthma is crucial for parents in recognising its signs and managing it effectively.

Managing Asthma Attacks:

Asthma attacks can be distressing for both children and parents. However, with proper management strategies, these attacks can be controlled, allowing children to lead active and fulfilling lives. Here are some key approaches to managing asthma attacks:

1. Breathing Techniques:

Teaching children proper breathing techniques can help alleviate symptoms during an asthma attack. Techniques such as pursed lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing can aid in controlling airflow and reducing the severity of symptoms.

2. Correct Techniques for Inhaled Medications:

Inhaled medications, such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids, are commonly used to manage asthma symptoms. It's essential to ensure children are using these medications correctly to maximize their effectiveness. Proper inhaler technique, including coordination and timing of inhalation, is crucial for optimal drug delivery to the airways.

3. Positioning:

During an asthma attack, positioning can play a significant role in improving airflow and comfort. Sitting upright or leaning forward slightly can help children breathe more comfortably by allowing the chest to expand fully.

Creating an Asthma Management Plan:

Every child with asthma should have a personalised asthma management plan developed in collaboration with their healthcare provider. These plans outline specific steps to take in different scenarios, including during asthma attacks and in day-to-day management. Parents are encouraged to work with their GP or respiratory specialist to create a comprehensive plan tailored to their child's needs.

The Role of Physiotherapy in Asthma Management:

At Wandering Health, we believe in a multidisciplinary approach to asthma management. Physiotherapy can play a crucial role in supporting children with asthma by:

- Providing education on breathing techniques and airway clearance methods.

- Designing personalised exercise programs to improve lung function and endurance.

- Offering support to help children achieve their goals, despite the challenges posed by asthma.

Asthma can present challenges for children and adolescents, but with proper management strategies and support, they can lead active and fulfilling lives. By understanding the incidence of asthma, implementing effective management techniques, and collaborating with healthcare professionals, parents can empower their children to thrive despite this chronic condition. At Wandering Health, we're here to support you every step of the way on your child's asthma journey.

Together, we can navigate asthma and ensure your child's respiratory health is in good hands.