Kirklees parents and carers of children with asthma in Kirklees are being reminded to make sure their asthma action plan is up-to-date and that they have been taking their asthma prevention medicine as directed over the summer.
The number of children with asthma who need emergency treatment doubles in the weeks after the school holidays and is known as the September surge.
That’s why Kirklees parents of those aged five to 16 with asthma are being reminded to make sure their asthma action plan is up-to-date and that they are taking their asthma prevention medicine as directed (usually a brown, orange, red or purple inhaler / puffer).
Around one in ten young people has asthma in the UK and a child is admitted to hospital every 20 minutes because of an asthma attack, the majority of which are preventable. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition and causes symptoms like coughing, wheezing and breathlessness.
Reducing the risk
To reduce this risk, parents are advised to maintain their child’s regular medication schedule as they transition back into their school routine.
There are four things parents can do:
- Have an asthma action plan in place that is up-to-date and being followed. This plan outlines steps to take in case of worsening symptoms or an asthma attack.
- Make sure they are taking their asthma prevention medicine regularly as prescribed. This helps to maintain control over the condition and reduce the risk of flare-ups.
- Ensure they always carry their blue reliever inhaler and spacer with them – including to school. This ensures that quick relief is readily available in case of sudden symptoms or emergencies.
- Download the App for parents of children with asthma, available on Apple Store and Google Play.
You can create an action plan with you GP or asthma nurse here or ask at your next appointment. Making sure your child is using the correct technique for inhalers is also vital and should be checked regularly. You can find more information on the Asthma + Lung UK website.
Why it affects children in September
Around one in ten young people has asthma in the UK and a child is admitted to hospital every 20 minutes because of an asthma attack, the majority of which are preventable.
The combination of children getting out of the habit of using inhalers during the summer break, the change of weather, coughs and colds, air pollution and the stress of term starting, are thought to contribute to the spike in asthma cases this month.
Asthma is a lung condition causing breathing difficulties, which can occur randomly or after a trigger like pollen, pollution, smoke, infections, colds and flu. It causes symptoms like coughing, wheezing and breathlessness but can be controlled very well with the right medication if taken daily and reviewed regularly to ensure it stays effective.
Everyone with asthma needs to take extra precautions during September. Children tend to be the most affected, but adults should also use this time to review their asthma plans.
Dr Katherine Hickman, a GP Partner in Bradford and Respiratory Lead for West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership said:
“Even if your child is feeling well and has been running around all summer, it’s vital to keep on top of their asthma medication and ensure they’re taking their preventer inhaler as instructed by their GP or asthma nurse.It’s easy to fall out of your usual asthma care routine during the long summer break, but it’s never too early to get back into it.
“Now we are getting back into the school routine, parents need to make sure their children are also getting back into the routine of taking their medicine to prevent asthma attacks and are following their asthma action plans.
“This includes checking their reliever inhaler isn’t empty or out of date, making sure teachers know they may need an inhaler, and ensuring they always take their reliever inhaler with them.”
Vaccinations also play a role in reducing the risk for children with asthma. Parents and carers are encouraged to ensure their children are vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 when offered. These vaccinations can help prevent respiratory infections that could worsen asthma symptoms.
You can find more back to school support for parent and carers of children with asthma advice on the WY HCP website.