Asthma Assistance

By Janet Capehart, Pediatric Asthma Director
Bertie Memorial Hospital - Chowan Hospital


Two of the most important keys to insuring a successful school year for the asthmatic student are preparation and management. Asthma is one of the most common chronic childhood illnesses affecting 10 percent of all school age children. It has been reported that more than 9 million children under the age of 18 suffer from allergies and asthma. This can account for more than 14 million missed school days and cost millions of dollars in medical bills and lost workdays for parents.

Given the amount of time that children are away from home and attending school, it is important that asthmatic children and their families work together with teachers, coaches and school nurses to avoid asthma triggers and to deal with symptoms. Asthma can be manageable with education and equipment. Items to have in place on the first day of school are

· a rescue medicine such as Albuterol (check the expiration date and that it is properly labeled)
· spacer for the inhaler
· an up-to-date action plan
· the proper authorization for Albuterol to be administered at school (whether by the student or school staff)
· a peak flow meter

Talk to your child and review what triggers his or her asthma symptoms. Encourage your child to ask a teacher for help when symptoms worsen. By being prepared, everyone is more at ease, especially the child.

For more information on childhood asthma, contact Janet Capehart, CRT, RCP, AE-C, the Bertie and Chowan Pediatric Asthma Program Case Manager at 252-794-3426.