Asthmatics Spring into Allergy Season

As spring approaches, approximately 14 million Americans -- one-third of them children -- have reason to fear. These individuals fear asthma, a chronic disease of the lungs which can worsen during allergy season.

For many, asthma causes only mild symptoms once in a while which often can be improved by an over-the-counter inhaler. But for others, the disease can be severe and every breath can be a struggle.

The physicians and staff of The Asthma & Pulmonary Center at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital and The University of Texas-Houston Medical School remind parents of ways to help your child get through allergy season.

• Keep your home clean and dry to reduce mold and dust mites
• Keep your windows closed during pollen season and on windy days
• Prevent contact with smokers
• Identify early warning signs of an asthma attack
• Use synthetic bedding materials which help decrease allergens
• Move live plants outdoors; avoid dried flower arrangements which can harbor mold
• Use a HEPA-approved air cleaner to remove more dust, pollen and mold spores

With a physician, develop and comply with an effective treatment plan with your child's physician; understand your child's medications and how to administer them

Seeing the doctor
And when should a child to see an asthma specialist? If the asthma severely interferes with an individual’s quality of life, perhaps in loss of sleep, numerous school absences, and hospitalization; if a child loses consciousness or has an asthma episode clearly associated with a specific allergen, it is important to see an asthma specialist.

For further details about asthma and the services at The Asthma & Pulmonary Center at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital, call 713-704-6516.