No matter how well you seem to have your child's asthma under control, there is always the risk of an acute attack. You need to be aware of the warning signs so that you can take prompt action. A key sign is that her normal medication does not seem to be working as well as usual. Other signs that her asthma may be getting out of control include having to take her reliever medication more frequently, wheezing constantly, being short of breath and unable to complete her sentences, coughing persistently, breathing at an increased rate, feeling tired and looking very pale.
A severe head cold or other viral infection of the upper respiratory tract is another common trigger. So how can you help your child? If your child is wheezing, encourage her to breathe deeply and slowly, although not so deeply that it will bring on a fit of coughing. Try to remain calm and be as reassuring as possible.
Remember any fear you feel is easily transmitted to your child and this is likely to make the wheezing worse. Acute attacks frequently happen at night. Your child will find it easier to breathe if she is sitting up, with you close by to hold hand or put your arm around her. This will help to calm her while she tries to get her breathing under control. Stay close to your child during an attack to help calm her. It is natural for you to feel anxious, but try to conceal this from your child to avoid upsetting her further.
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