So, in order to combat this problem, asthma education programs are sometimes offered to adults and children with asthma in an attempt to improve asthma control. Children and their caregivers are taught about the basics of asthma, including how to recognize and treat worsening asthma symptoms, the difference between controller and rescue medicines, as well as how to follow an asthma action plan.
Asthma education in children has been shown to reduce asthma symptoms and reduce missed school days as a result of asthma symptoms. In addition, in children who had previously been to the ER for an asthma attack, asthma education resulted in a 25% reduction in further ER visits and hospitalizations, and more than a 30% reduction in sick visits to the doctor. Therefore, asthma education is recommended for all asthmatics by the National Institutes of Health Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma.
Bottom line: If you are considering an asthma education program, it's a great idea, since research shows they can dramatically reduce asthma-related health problems.
Find a certified asthma nurse educator in your area and attend an asthma education class!
Learn about what you should be doing after you’ve been diagnosed with asthma.
Sources:
Haby MM, Waters E, Robertson CF, Gibson PG, Ducharme FM. Interventions for educating children who have attended the emergency room for asthma. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2001, Issue 1. Art. No.: CD001290. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001290.
Expert Panel Report 3 (EPR-3): Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Asthma. NHLBI Web Site. Accessed June 22, 2009
DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this site is for educational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for personal care by a licensed physician. Please see your physician for diagnosis and treatment of any concerning symptoms or medical condition.
