Asthma Attacks

[RachelVaughn]

My 4 year old has moderate asthma. Ive heard stories of asthma attacks leading to hospitalization and death. We have close friend whom have died from an asthma attack. My question/worry is, Do asthma attacks ever come on so strong and fast that you cant get help in time? I thought that there was always signs and symptoms so you can control it before it gets that far.

[edyo4842]

During an asthma attack, a person has great difficulty breathing as the air passages to lungs become narrower. It might help you to know the factors that can trigger an asthma attack, so you can control the occurrence of asthma attacks in your child. Allergens like pollen, house dust, certain food items, irritants such as strong smells, chemicals, changing weather conditions, strenuous exercise, and tobacco smoke can trigger an attack in those suffering from child asthma.

[caregiver222]

You ask an interesting question.

Asthmatic presentations vary, but they can develop suddenly and within five minutes the patient may require endotracheal intubation unless an emergency inhaler is available.

That is not common, but it does happen. Think about getting one of those radio-controlled doorbells and putting the button on a string around her neck, so she can call you for help.

At the age of four, depending on the severity of the asthma, she should bear closer watching than other children.

Avoiding triggers, following your physician's treatment plan and always keeping an emergency albuterol inhaler handy will usually be sufficient.

Early childhood asthma is not necessarily something that will remain with you. Many children develop normal lung function as they age. The asthma sometimes - but not always - goes away.

[ilovetrees999]

Rachel, there are early warning signs for asthma. Check the National Jewish Medical Center's website. I believe it's nationaljewish.org.  You could also do an internet search "asthma early warning signs national jewish" which should yield the webpage in the search results. I believe Natl Jewish also has a free pamphlet which explains asthma (adult & kids versions).

I've had asthma my entire life and am now in my 40s. During my youth, my parents were aware of my triggers but didn't considerably restrict my activity. I was encouraged to run & play with friends. Although I was never the best at sports and had to rest more than my peers to catch my breath, the activity helped me build social relationships and kept me physically active. It was a benefit to my lung function and overall health.  

Presently, my breathing difficulties have worsened.I still strive to be physically active to the extent of my abilities. However, I'm cognizant of early warning signs and have an asthma action plan that was developed by my doctors (primary care, allergist, & pulmonologist) and me

Asthma is something which can be managed. I'd encourage you to learn the early warning signs and work with your child's physician(s) to develop an appropriate action plan. You may also consider contacting your insurance company. It may have a nurse line or asthma program to help you manage your child's care.

I hope this helps you and your 4 yr old.