Asthma is a common lung condition that causes occasional breathing difficulties.
It affects people of all ages and often starts in childhood, although it can also develop for the first time in adults.
There's currently no cure, but there are simple treatments that can help keep the symptoms under control so it does not have a big impact on your life.
What you can do to help
Be aware of asthma symptoms
If you are worried that
- Your child's symptoms are getting worse
- The reliever inhaler (usually blue) isn't working
- Their breathing is getting faster or doesn't sound like normal
- They are too breathless to speak, eat, play or sleep
- They are complaining that their tummy or chest hurts.
You should:
- Sit your child in an upright position. Try and keep your child calm, and encourage them to take slow, steady breaths
- Take 1 puff of their reliever inhaler (usually blue) through their spacer every 30 to 60 seconds, up to a maximum of ten puffs
- Call 999 for an ambulance if you don't have access to an inhaler, things are not getting better after 10 puffs or you are worried at any point.
- Never be frightened of asking for help in an emergency
Who can help?
If you’re worried about your child, a health professional in our team will be able to offer advice and support. You can Call Us on 0300 029 50 50 or Text Us on 07520 649887 to start a conversation. If your aged 11-19 you can text ChatHealth on 07480 635 443
**Monday to Friday 9.30am - 4.30pm excluding bank holidays**
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Delivering excellence in Children and Young People’s Services:
a partnership between Cambridgeshire Community Services NHS Trust and
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust.
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