Encourage the child to remain calm so you can see if the action you've taken is working. If you have a peak flow meter, check your child's peak flow 5 or 10 minutes after treatment to see if air flow is improving. If you need help, call a friend, neighbor or family member. Contact the doctor if necessary. Wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath get worse, even after the medication has had time to work.
Signs indicate breathing difficulty.
The child may seem to struggle for breath, hunch over, or suck in chest or neck muscles with each attempt to breathe. The child has trouble walking or talking. The child's lips or fingernails turn gray or blue. When you and your family know what to expect and what to do, it's easier to help a child cope with asthma. A complete program of allergen removal, proper medication, and peak flow monitoring will help your child manage asthma effectively - and enjoy the activities he or she likes.