- Plan to see your doctor for an asthma appointment at least every 6 months, even if you think your asthma is under control.
- Know when and how to correctly use your asthma medicines, especially your metered dose inhaler.
- Always use a holding chamber (or spacer) with your metered dose inhaler.
- Make sure you always have access to your asthma medicines, especially quick-relief inhalers.
- Get a written asthma action plan from your doctor. Make sure you understand it and have it updated at least every year.
- Know what triggers your asthma and how to avoid your triggers.
- Ask your doctor about tests to find out if you have allergies.
- Always avoid exposure to tobacco smoke.
- Ask your doctor about testing your lung function at least every 1-2 years.
- Be sure you get a flu shot (vaccine) every year
- Please inform the school nurse if your child has been in the hospital with an asthma episode.
- Provide the school nurse with a copy of your updated asthma action plan.
The guidance on this page has been clinically reviewed by CHOC pediatric experts.
The contents of this webpage, including text, graphics, audio files, and videos (“Materials”), are for your general information only. The Materials are not intended to substitute qualified professional or medical advice, diagnoses, or treatments. CHOC does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, or other information that may be mentioned on or linked to this webpage. Always call your physician or another qualified health provider if you have any questions or problems. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the nearest emergency department, or call 911.
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