While many doctors used to forbid children with asthma from playing sports, recent studies have shown that kids with asthma should be playing sports instead of avoiding them.However, asthma tends to improve over time if the individual is playing a sport regularly, especially in children. According to information released by the American Academy of Allergy, 20% of elite athletes suffer from asthma. Here’s what you’ll need to keep in mind when it comes to sports and your child.
Control is Key
In order for your child to continue playing sports, they must have their asthma under control. This means limiting asthma attacks, preventing chronic symptoms (i.e. coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, etc.), and ensuring that you have a plan should an attack arise.
Your doctor may prescribe a long-term asthma medicine that helps keep your child’s asthma under control. Preventative medications can ensure your child maintains high-functioning lungs and limits daily symptoms. You’ll also want to carry quick-relief medicine in case of emergencies.
You’ll need to monitor your child closely to ensure their asthma is under control. If you hear them frequently coughing or wheezing, particularly at night time, this is a common sign their asthma is not under control.
Choosing a Sport
While children with asthma should be playing sports, some sports may be better suited for them than others. What sport you choose will be highly affected by what triggers your child’s asthma. If pollen is a high-level trigger, you may want to keep your kid away from sports such as soccer and baseball/softball.
Two sports that are popular among kids with asthma are swimming and martial arts – both have scheduled “down time” where your child can recover from exertion, instead of continually pushing themselves to their limits. These sports also tend to be away from grassy areas, which will help kids who are triggered by pollen.
Keep On Top of It
If your child begins to suffer from symptoms, visit your doctor and discuss ways of alleviating them. Likewise, if you or your child have any questions or concerns about a sport they’re interested in getting involved in, your doctor will be able to give your more information. Work with your child’s’ asthma doctor in order to develop an asthma management plan that works best.
You’ll also need to be sure that you child’s school and coach are aware of his or hers condition, and what they should do in case of an emergency. Often a coach will be the first person on hand to respond when the time comes. Be sure to give your asthma management plan to those in charge at any sporting events.
Get More Advice from Your Asthma Doctor
Asthma can change the way you and your child approach the world, but it doesn’t have to stop them from having fun! Provide your child with the asthma treatment to keep symptoms at bay, no matter what sport they play.
If you are in need of an experienced asthma doctor for kids, contact our asthma doctor’s office to schedule your appointment today.
