Managing Asthma

Inhalers

Asthma medicines are usually given by inhalers. These are devices that deliver medication into the lungs as your breathe in. This is an effective way of taking an asthma medicine as most goes straight to the lungs, with very little ending up elsewhere in the body. Each inhaler works in a slightly different way. You should have training from a health professional so you can help your child use theirs. Inhaler technique should be checked at least once a year.

Spacers

A spacer is a hollow plastic container with a mask or mouthpiece at one end and a hole for the inhaler at the other. It is very important that your child uses a spacer device when having their inhaler, this ensures that the inhaled medication reaches their lungs. There are different types of spacer devices with either a mouth piece or a face mask, the choice will depend on your child’s age and ability.

Relievers

Relievers relax muscles around the airways, making it easier to breath. They are usually blue in colour. If your child needs to use their inhaler more than once in any day or 3-4 times a week, it is important to speak to your GP as they may also need a preventer.

Preventer

Preventers control the swelling and inflammation in the airways. They reduce the sensitivity of the airways to triggers. This protective effect builds up over time. It is important that is it taken daily, even when your child is well.

Oral steroids

Oral steroids control the swelling and inflammation in the airways which helps to ease asthma symptoms. It is best to give steroids in the morning with breakfast. Oral steroids are usually used during an asthma attack.

Montelukast

Montelukast stops chemicals called leukotrienes from narrowing the airways. It is best to give Montelukast in the evening to prevent asthma allergy symptoms. The medication can come as granules which can be mixed with a spoonful of the following at room temperature; apple sauce, mashed carrot, porridge, rice, milk. Alternatively, the medication can be fed directly into the child’s mouth. The granules will NOT dissolve in liquid. Do not attempt to dissolve or crush the granules. The medication also comes as a chewable tablet, this must be chewed well before swallowing.