How is asthma in children treated?

How is asthma in children treated?

Based on your child's history and how severe the asthma is, the healthcare provider will develop a care plan called an "Asthma Action Plan,” which describes:

• When and how your child should use asthma medication.
• What to do when asthma gets worse.
• When to seek emergency care for your child.

Make sure you understand this plan and ask your child's provider any questions you may have. The Asthma Action Plan is important to the success of asthma control. Keep it handy to remind you of your child's daily asthma management plan and to guide you when your child develops asthma symptoms. In addition to following the Asthma Action Plan, try to limit (and avoid, if possible) exposure to asthma triggers.

Asthma medications that adults and older children take can also safely be prescribed for toddlers and younger children. In the case of inhaled medications, a different delivery device based on the child's age and ability may be required.

If your infant or child is having asthma symptoms that require treatment with a rescue inhaler (a bronchodilator, such as albuterol/levalbuterol) more than twice a week, your provider may prescribe a daily controller therapy (such as an anti-inflammatory medication).