After watching your child struggle with symptoms such as coughing and wheezing, an asthma diagnosis gives you a starting point for helping them feel better. Yet, it's also normal to feel a wide range of emotions following this type of diagnosis, and you may be wondering exactly what you can do to help them manage their condition. As you seek more information about your child's health, ask their pediatrician these questions to develop an asthma care plan that helps them feel their best.

Do They Need Allergy Testing?

Asthma symptoms typically arise after a person is exposed to specific triggers. Allergens such as mold, animal dander, and smoke are common causes for an asthma attack to strike. Depending upon your child's age and health history, allergy testing is one of the pediatrician services that their doctor may suggest. Finding out what triggers your child's asthma helps you to implement preventive strategies to avoid them in your care plan.

What Changes Should I Make At Home?

There are some things that you can do at home to reduce your child's exposure to potential asthma triggers. While allergy testing can reveal if your child is allergic to their pets or mold, you can also use strategies such as having them leave the room while you vacuum to limit their exposure to airborne pollutants. Since asthma attacks can also be triggered by stress, your child's doctor can also recommend relaxation strategies that are tailored to fit your child's age. For instance, practicing deep breathing exercises before school can help them prepare for the day.

Can They Continue to Play Sports?

Whether your kid loves football or long-distance running, participating in sports gives them an outlet for their energy while also teaching valuable skills such as how to work on a team. Naturally, you may fear that your child can no longer participate in their favorite activities. While every case is different, it's typically best for children with asthma to continue to exercise. However, your child's doctor may make recommendations to prevent an asthma attack during sports events such as taking frequent breaks or using an inhaler.

Childhood asthma does require you to make a care plan that helps your child learn how to manage their condition with as little interference to their happiness as possible. By knowing what to ask the pediatrician, you can begin to implement a plan that helps them feel their best and still enjoy their favorite home and school activities.

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