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Be asthma aware
this September
06.09.18
THE weather is
changing, colds and flus are on the rise - add a new
school or routine into the mix and it’s easy to see
why hospital admissions for asthma increase so much
at this time of year. September is one of the
toughest times of the year for people with asthma,
especially children.
Doctors see a spike in hospital visits and
admissions in children, as a result of the
'September Asthma Peak'.
Speaking about the importance of looking after your
child’s asthma at this time of year, Sarah O’Connor,
Asthma Society CEO, said: “September is a dangerous
time for children with asthma. Doctors see a huge
increase in asthma attacks and hospital admissions
for asthma, especially in children just back to
school. An asthma attack is such a frightening
experience, especially for young kids and a huge
worry for parents in Donegal.
On average, children with asthma miss 12 days of
school each year because of the condition but there
are many practical things parents can do to keep
their child out of hospital.
We’re encouraging parents to follow our
Back to
School checklist to keep their little ones out
of hospital.” |
Dr. Marcus Butler,
respiratory consultant and head of the Asthma
Society’s Medical Advisory Group, expanding on the
causes of the increase saying:
“Every year there is an increase in the number of
children in Donegal being admitted to hospital for
asthma after they go back to school. This is known
as the September Asthma Peak – it’s related to the
increased exposure to viral infection that happens
at this time of year. Viral infections like colds
and flu are related to 85% of asthma exacerbations
in school-aged children.”
Dr. Muhammed Tariq, consultant paediatrician, also
offered some advice for getting prepared for the
school year: |
- Visit your
healthcare professional before school starts to
answer any questions you have about your child’s
asthma and to check their inhaler technique.
- Get a new
Ventolin inhaler and spacer before school
starts, if needed.
- Make sure your
child’s teacher knows about their asthma and
speak to them about your child’s needs.
- Put together an
‘asthma pack’ for your child, labelled with
their name. This should include a Ventolin
inhaler and spacer. Check with your child’s
teacher that they’re comfortable giving your
child their inhaler.
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