Children and Asthma: Emergency Signs Parents Should Not Ignore
An essential discussion for parents on recognizing the critical signs of asthma emergencies in children and the best immediate actions to take.
Children and Asthma: Emergency Signs Parents Should Not Ignore
Posted by Dr. Oliver Williams, reviewed by Dr. Helena Rodriguez | 2024-Apr-06
Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting children, with millions of young lives impacted worldwide. As a parent, recognizing the early warning signs of an asthma emergency and knowing how to respond quickly can quite literally mean the difference between life and death. While asthma symptoms can often be managed through proper medication and lifestyle adjustments, there are certain critical situations that require immediate medical attention.
Key Asthma Emergency Signs in Children
- Rapid, labored breathing: If a child's breathing becomes rapid and shallow, with visible chest and neck muscle contractions, this signals their airways are severely constricted and they are struggling to get enough oxygen.
- Blue or gray skin, lips, and nails: This discoloration, known as cyanosis, occurs when the body is not getting sufficient oxygen circulation.
- Drowsiness or confusion: As the body is deprived of oxygen, a child may become lethargic, disoriented, or difficult to arouse.
- Inability to speak in full sentences: If a child can only get out a few words between breaths, their airflow is significantly restricted.
- Peak flow readings below 50% of the child's personal best: Peak flow meters measure how fast air can be exhaled, providing an objective assessment of lung function.
Immediate Action for Asthma Emergencies
If a child is experiencing any of these critical symptoms, it is crucial that parents act swiftly. First, administer the child's prescribed quick-relief (rescue) inhaler immediately, following the proper dosage and technique. If there is no improvement within 15 minutes, or if the child is in severe distress, call emergency services right away.
While waiting for medical help to arrive, continue giving the rescue inhaler every 5-15 minutes. If the child becomes unresponsive, begin CPR and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. It is also important to avoid giving the child anything to eat or drink, as this could interfere with emergency treatment.
Preventing Asthma Emergencies
- Ensuring the child takes their daily controller medications as prescribed
- Identifying and avoiding known asthma triggers
- Keeping the child's asthma action plan up-to-date and accessible
- Teaching the child and other caregivers how to properly use inhalers and peak flow meters
By staying vigilant and knowing how to respond appropriately, parents can help safeguard their children's health and well-being. Recognizing the critical signs of an asthma emergency and acting quickly could very well save a child's life.
What other tips do you have for parents to prepare for and manage asthma crises in children?
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