Summer asthma tips for parents and carers

As the school term draws to a close, parents and carers across the Black Country are being reminded of the importance of managing their child’s asthma during the summer break.

Asthma is a common lung condition, affecting around one in every 11 children. It can cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and breathlessness.

Although asthma affects each child differently, most cases can be well controlled with the daily use of a preventer inhaler. A reliever inhaler (usually blue) may also be needed from time to time if symptoms flare up.

The NHS has created a video with a Black Country respiratory nurse discussing the importance of keeping of top of your child’s asthma over the summer holidays.

Lisa Cummings, Queens Nurse and Asthma Practitioner in the Children and Young People’s Asthma Team for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB) said: “Each year, we see a noticeable rise in asthma attacks around September, often linked to children falling out of their usual medication routines over the summer holidays. But with a few straightforward measures, parents can support their child in staying well and making the most of the summer break.

“It’s easy to assume everything’s fine if your child seems active and symptom-free during the holidays, but it’s crucial they continue using their preventer inhaler exactly as prescribed by their GP or asthma nurse. This consistent use helps ensure they’re protected when returning to school, where asthma triggers are more likely.

“Make sure you have your child’s asthma action plan easily accessible and follow it carefully. Anyone with asthma is at risk of having an asthma attack, which usually needs urgent medical treatment. Asthma attacks can even be fatal. This is why it is crucial to ensure children and young people take their medication even when feeling well, and to take action if their asthma seems to be getting worse.

Knowing what steps to take when symptoms appear can make all the difference. Most importantly, always be prepared. Always carry an up-to-date reliever inhaler (typically blue), as asthma attacks can be serious and unpredictable.”

You can also follow #ThinkAboutAsthmaBlackCountry on social media for tips on managing your child’s asthma this summer

To watch the mentioned video Click Here

For more information  Click Here

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