SCHOOL IS COOL. NOW YOUR ASTHMA INHALER IS, TOO.
Asthma Foundation Creates Free Online Back-To-School Resources for Parents, Teachers and Students
The beginning of the school year is stressful for most children and their parents. But if your child has asthma, the anticipation of returning to school becomes even more nerve-racking. It doesn’t have to be that way. With some preparation and organization, you and your kids can have a problem-free year.
That’s why the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) has created an online back-to-school resource for parents, teachers and students,www.aafa.org/schools, with tips, advice and downloadable materials to help you start the school year right. The free site is sponsored by Mitzy®, makers of a clever new personal inhaler cover available in Sept 2010 across America. These unique covers are designed to insulate the medicine at a stable temperature, make inhalers more convenient to carry and help kids personalize their inhalers.
“Asthma is a serious problem in schools and the #1 chronic disease affecting absenteeism in the U.S.,” says Mike Tringale, Vice President at AAFA, “so making sure kids and parents are prepared for the return to school is very important.”
Do Your Homework
Triggers inside and outside the classroom are everywhere. Rugs or carpeting can collect dust mites and chalk dust. Furry animals in class are cute but problematic. Rigorous sports may exert students who have exercise-induced asthma. Freshly mowed grass on the playground, trees and weeds outside a classroom, or chemicals used for cleaning the building can all post asthma risks. Mold can grow in gym lockers and shower stalls, as well as classrooms.
These are the types of allergens and irritants that can trigger a child’s asthma symptoms. You can’t be in control of everything children will be exposed to at school, but there is some simple homework you can do to protect them:
Be sure your child’s medical information is complete and up to date.
Teach older children the importance of responsible asthma management.
Hand in a Student Asthma Action Card, which lists daily medications, triggers, symptoms and emergency plans.
Attach your child’s picture to the Asthma Action Card.
Ask your doctor for a letter stating which allergens and irritants cause problems for your child.
Attach your child’s name and dosage to every medication.
Set up appointments to meet with the school nurse, your child’s teachers, including the physical education teacher, and even the principal.
Speak to your children about their responsibility to take medications. Even at an early age, it is critical that your children begin to identify symptoms and learn to ask for help.
These tips, downloadable Asthma Action Cards and other resources are all available on AAFA’s back-to-school site at www.aafa.org/schools.
Mitzy® Personal Inhaler Covers are sold exclusively through selected Walgreens stores across the United States and will be available in-stores and online starting at the end of September. To locate participating Walgreens stores please visit www.onemitzy.com.
SOURCE: The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
Here are some links related to this article:
Healthy Kids Run in the Family
Managing Your Child’s Asthma During the Fall Months
