| Are steroids safe? |
|
Steroid' refers to natural or man-made hormones that make our bodies function in a certain way. The steroids that some athletes misuse to build up their muscles are called anabolic' steroids, and they are potentially dangerous. Steroids that are used to treat asthma, on the other hand are called corticosteroids' and they are very useful and quite safe. These two types of steroids should not be confused because they are very different from each other.
|
| |
| Can my child use a cough syrup during an attack? |
|
In general, it is not a good idea since the cough may be a sign that the asthma is not being adequately treated. Also, the child should be able to cough up the mucus which is blocking the windpipes. |
| |
| When should I start giving medication? |
|
Ordinarily you should start treatment according to a prearranged plan as soon as you recognize the first sign of asthma in your child. For some, there is an early clue such as an itch on the neck, a sneeze or a runny nose. For others a cough, a wheeze or tight chest is the first sign of asthma. For children six years and over, use the peak flow reading as your guide, as well as symptoms.
|
| |
| Why does my child have a flare up when he is already taking medication? |
|
The dose of medication that controls a flare provoked by one trigger may not be adequate when another trigger is added to the system. A single drug may control an episode that was triggered by an upper respiratory infection. Additional triggers such as cold air, an allergen or exercise might produce further reaction in the bronchioles which cannot be contained by the original dose of medication.
|
| |
| How can dosage of medication be determined without frequent phone calls or visits to the doctor? |
|
You and your doctor should work out a plan in advance that covers the various possibilities that may occur.
|
| |
|
|
