Admin Corner

Spring and increased risks of seasonal asthma, hay fever and thunderstorm asthma

From October to December there is an increased risk of seasonal asthma, hay fever and thunderstorm asthma.  To help with the increased risk here are some tips to help your child during this time.

Seasonal Asthma- please make sure if your child has asthma that they have their Ventolin (not expired) and spacer in their school bags when they are at school.  This way we can treat their asthma straight away.  If they cannot give themselves Ventolin all staff are trained in asthma management so they will help them.  Please make sure that your child’s asthma plan is up to date, if you are not sure I can always check for you.

Hay Fever- If your child suffers from hay fever or symptoms of hay fever with increased pollen it is best to give them an antihistamine such as Zyrtec or Claratyne before school to help prevent these symptoms. The medication will cover them for the school day and will hopefully reduce the symptoms of hay fever.

Thunderstorm Asthma- Thunderstorm asthma is triggered by a combination of higher grass pollen levels and a certain type of thunderstorm.  Under these conditions, people are at a higher risk of a sudden and serious asthma attack if they have a history of asthma or their asthma or hay fever is poorly treated.  However, please be aware that thunderstorm asthma can occur even in people who have never had asthma before.  The symptoms of this are wheezing, shortness of breath and chest tightness.  If this occurs, please get emergency help.

I hope that these tips are helpful and that you have a great term 4.

Nurse Emma