If you’re a stepparent providing care for your spouse’s child who has asthma, then you need to know everything stepparents should know about asthma. It’s important to learn as much as you can about this condition as proper education will allow you to help your step kid remain healthy and prevent attacks.
If an attack is starting to present itself, you’ll know all the right things to keep your stepchild safe. Let’s look at some things stepparents should know about asthma.
What It Is
Asthma is a respiratory health condition that results in spasms in the bronchi within the lungs. When these spasms occur, the airways can become inflamed and start to close up. Difficulty in breathing ensues during the episode.
Among the most common causes of an asthma attack is an allergic reaction or hypersensitivity to an outside stimulus such as pollen, pet dander, mold, or smoke.
The Doctors Who Treat It
There are several different types of medical professionals you may wish to consult and utilize in order to properly manage your stepchild’s asthma. You’ll want to do some research and make sure you find the best doctor for your stepchild.
Knowing who you’ll be talking to is important. You’ll want to keep in touch with the child’s pediatrician. This primary physician will make sure your stepchild is in good general health throughout the year.
Illness can cause a flare-up of asthma attacks, so it’s a good idea to seek medical attention whenever one pops up. A child with asthma will undoubtedly be referred to a pulmonologist. This specialty focuses on diagnosing and treating respiratory issues in the lungs.
Since asthma attacks are often triggered by allergic reactions, an allergist or immunologist may also be involved. Respiratory therapists can be of immense help. According to Independence University, they usually have a bachelor’s degree and focus their attention on cardiopulmonary care and treatment.
It’s a good idea to develop relationships with any of these professionals who are responsible for the youngster’s well-being.
Asthma is a Serious Condition
Every day in the United States, 11 people die due to complications from asthma according to AsthmaMD. You need to understand how serious this condition is to keep your stepchild healthy and safe. While it might seem as though the asthma is well controlled, an attack can present itself at any time.
Asthma Can Appear as More Than Coughing and Wheezing
Most children experience coughing and wheezing when they are having an asthma attack, but according to Simply Health, other symptoms can present themselves during such an episode.
In some kids, coughing isn’t the main indication. You could hear raspy or labored breathing instead. Since the inability to breathe properly is quite frightening, other children might start to experience some panic and anxiety before or during an attack.
If you are the stepparent of a child with asthma, do plenty of research to understand this condition well. Some other questions will occur to you, and each one that does should be asked. You’ll find your spouse and the child’s pediatrician to be a great source of vital information.
You should also understand how an emergency inhaler works in case you need to help your stepchild use one. It’s a good idea to have an open line of communication between you, your spouse, and the child’s other parent.
So, now you know everything stepparents should know about asthma, you’ll be better equipped to handle any situation that may arise and give your stepchild prompt care and assistance
Protecting the youngster’s health ought to be the primary concern of everyone involved. Good health is one of the most important investments you can make. Here’re three ways you can invest in your family’s health.
