My Approach to Asthma

Main principles Asthma Education Sessions Patients Examination

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Introduction

• A child should not have a cough for more than few weeks.
• If a child has a prolonged cough, there is a problem in the lungs.
• Whether the cough is due to bronchitis or asthma is not important. It is important, however, that the problem is managed properly.
• In young children, It is possible to achieve good Asthma control and prevent most asthma attacks.
• Good Asthma control means total absence of all + Asthma symptoms.
• Optimally, Asthma attacks should be controlled within 2-4 days.
• Babies, from the age of 3 months, can respond well to Asthma treatment.
• To properly control Asthma, parents of an Asthmatic child should participate in Athma education sessions.

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Asthma Education Sessions

• What is Asthma?
• What changes occur in the lungs during Asthma?
• How can Asthma attacks be avoided?
• What are the first signs of an Asthma attack?
• What should be done when an Asthma attack is starting?
• What is the role of each treatment drug?
• When should one contact the doctor or specialist?

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Patients Examination

• The parents are asked to provide all details on their child's history of Asthma.
• The child is examined carefully, including a lung function test when possible.
• The clinician gives the parents the final diagnosis and explains its treatment.
• The clinician clearly and fully answers all questions about the disease raised by the parents and child.
• The treatment is adjusted to the child's abilities and skills.
• The clinician explains to the patient how to operate the device.
• The parents receive a treatment plan for Asthma.
• The parents and child are given telephone access to the doctor.
• The patient is scheduled for a follow-up visit.

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