You've been here before. Another sleepless night listening to your child cough, struggling to breathe. Frightened, tired, weak, feeling there is no way out.

Parents, you are the first line of defense against this chronic disease. The first step is to get this disease diagnosed. Know the signs and symptoms of asthma. Second step, see an asthma or pulmonary medical professional. Then, follow a carefully prescribed Asthma Management Plan.

What Is An Asthma Attack?

In an asthma attack, your airways are triggered by any number of sources to inflame or swell, while the muscular bands around the airways constrict and mucous production increases. This combination of reactions results in breathlessness, inability to get enough air, coughing and wheezing. Each person's asthma eposodes are unique, just as their combination and sensitivity to triggers is unique. An attack may be miled and easily controlled or it could be serious and very frightening.

"I have had asthma since I was four. I was just in the hospital because I was hyperventilating and they put me on oxygen. I try to keep my asthma from coming back. The attacks make me feel like I will never breathe again. I need help to find ways to control the attacks." - Elyse 12 years old

How Can I Manage My Asthma?

• Educate yourself about asthma.
• Indentify and avoid your allergies
  and triggers.
• Work with your doctor to create and
  asthma management plan.
• Consistently take your maintenance
  medication.
• Enlist help and support.
• Establish and emergency plan for
  severe attacks.

Types of Triggers

• Tobacco Smoke
• Cold Weather
• Wood Smoke
• Dust
• Pollen
• Mold & Mildew
• Exercise
• Animals
• Fragrances & Odors

For additional information on asthma call the national helpline at (800) LUNG USA or visit www.lungusa.org/lung-disease/asthma/.