It is a chronic condition that makes the airways overly sensitive. Treatment for people with anything more than mild, occasional episodes includes daily therapy with medicines which prevent or reduce inflammation. This helps reduce the sensitivity of the airways and prevent episodes. Doctors usually prescribe this medicine so students can take it before and after school, but sometimes it is necessary to take preventive medicine during school hours. Both medicine taken on a regular preventive basis and medicine needed to control an asthma episode should be available and convenient for the student at school.
Many students can even carry and self-administer their medicine.
If your students with asthma have difficulty getting their medicine, please discuss this with the parents, school nurse, and school principal. Children take medicine in different ways, including pills, inhalers, syrups, and nebulizers. Students should never share medicines. Pass out the Asthma Maze sheet. Either as a group, in pairs, or as individuals, complete the maze by avoiding things that make asthma worse.