During an asthma episode, the airways become narrower or blocked. It then becomes difficult for the student to breath. The student coughs, wheezes and experiences a tightening of the chest. The student's airway is blocked because the muscles tighten, the cells swell and become narrow. The airway and the cells secrete mucus which can plug narrowed airways.
Asthma management includes one or several things that can be done.
Medications usually administered through inhalers which open the airway. Dealing with the allergies so that the student is less sensitive to the allergens. Modifying the environment to decrease the student's exposure to allergens. Educating the student and family on ways to control the asthma. Most students with asthma will have been educated to know what to do when they have an episode.