For My Sister

[EmmyJN]

Hi, everyone!

My littler sister is 10, her name is Shannon. She was born a pre-me, so she's very tiny. She's got GERD, a severe diary allergy, and she's got asthma. She really wants to dance, but my mom is worried about her having an attack.

We've avoided extreme physical excurtion with Shannon as much as possible because of her asthma, because that's what my mom wants to do. She's got a "breathing treatment" machine at home, plus her inhaler. She's good with the inhaler and takes it with her everywhere she goes.

Can you give me some suggestions to avoid attacks while she's dancing? I don't want to deny Shannon of dancing--I was in dance, and I loved it! And she's really passionate about starting this. She sees me running, and her twin Kelly in track and basketball. It's not fair.

Thanks!

[EmmyJN]

I will deffinately pass this information along to my mom! I'm glad there's a way for Shannon to be able to dance. She's wanted to dance forever, between me and the Michael Jackson videos she watches with me. I know she'll be happy to hear that there's a way to do it finally.

Thank you so much for your help!

[geminigirl1963]

If your sister's asthma is under good control, there really isn't much reason for her NOT to be able to dance.  Exercise is good for everyone, and that includes those with asthma.

One thing your sister could do to help reduce the risk of an attack while dancing is to use her inhaler 20-30 minutes before she starts dancing.  My youngest nephew was diagnosed wtih exercise induced asthma and that's exactly what his doctor had him do before any sports or PE class in school and he made out just fine.

Also, since your sister has not had much "extreme" physical exertion, it's definitley a good idea to take things slowly - start slow and gradually increase the duration and intensity of her dancing.  If she finds that she's getting short of breath or wheezing while doing it, have her stop and rest and if need be, use her inhaler and/or nebulizer (breathing treatment machine)

I can understand your mother's hesitance about letting her do something that could possibly cause an attack, but unless her doctor specifically said she is not to dance, so long as she takes it slowly and uses her medications, it shouldn't be a big problem.

I would, though, definitely have her doctor give the final go-ahead before starting.  He/she can also answer any questions or hesitations or mother has about the dancing or other exercise for your sister.

Your sister is very luckly to hav ea siblling who cares so much!