Each year at the start of the Autumn term, there is a big rise in the number of children rushed to hospital with their Asthma. Cornwall Resus are on hand to provide some advice and top tips.Spot the signs of an Asthma attack before it happens:
- Snotty Noses- colds and flu often trigger asthma attacks.
- Puffing on their reliever inhaler (usually blue) three or more times a week.
- Coughing and/or wheezing at night and in the early mornings.
- Breathlessness- if they are pausing for breath when talking or struggling to keep up with friends, that’s a sign.
- They might say their tummy or chest hurts –get to know your child’s individual asthma signs.
Know what to do if your child’s symptoms are getting worse
- Give between two and six puffs of their reliever inhaler, through a spacer, every four hours. Space the puffs out so there are 30-60 seconds between them.
- Make a same-day appointment with your child's GP.
- If the surgery is closed, call 111 for advice.
- If you have any questions, you can call Asthma UK for advice on 0300 222 5800 (Mon – Fri; 9am – 5pm). You can also visit their child asthma advice on line at www.asthma.org.uk.
- If your child's symptoms get worse quickly, call 999:
- While you wait for the ambulance, help them sit up and give a puff of their reliever inhaler every 30-60 seconds - you can give them up to 10 puffs.
- If the ambulance takes longer than 15 minutes, you can give your child 10 more puffs of their reliever inhaler.
TOP TIPS FOR INHALER TECHNIQUES….Remember to give your inhaler a good shake between doses (puff) and then wait 30-60 seconds before taking the next puff.Brush your teeth, rinse out your mouth or gargle and spit out, after using your preventer inhaler.If using a face mask with your spacer device, remember to wash your babies face after using a preventer inhaler.Information taken from Asthma.uk For more information about childhood illness, serious illness and life saving training including CPR for babies and children contact Cornwall Resus. Life Saving Training and Event First Aid.Baby and Child First Aid Courses, call 07503834185 for more information.