Overview
Asthma is a condition of chronic inflammation of the lungs. Children with asthma have episodes of coughing, wheezing and respiratory distress triggered by allergies, upper respiratory infections, exercise and changes in the weather. Asthma treatment protocols aim to treat acute exacerbation of asthma and to prevent the frequency of attacks.
Control and Avoidance of Allergens
Avoidance of allergens is key to preventing asthma attacks, especially in children with allergic asthma. Common allergens include dust mites, pollen and cigarette smoke.
Treatment of an Acute Asthma Attack
Treatment of an acute asthma attack includes oxygen; bronchodilators, which help open up the airways; and steroids, to reduce the inflammation surrounding the airways. Oral steroids, such as prednisone, can help if the child can take medicines by mouth and is not in significant distress. Otherwise, intravenous steroids can be used.
Prevention of Asthma Exacerbation
Preventive medicines include inhaled steroids to decrease the chronic inflammation of the lungs, and allergy medicines to prevent allergic triggers of asthma attacks. Inhaled steroids include fluticasone and beclomethasone. Allergies can be controlled with anithistamines, such as benadryl, cetirizine and loratadine; and with nasal steroids.
No comments:
Post a Comment