Asthma
Asthma is a respiratory disease with a number of causes. An inhaler that delivers medication directly to the lungs is often used. Some inhalers work best prior to exercise. Individuals with asthma tend to be sensitive to weather changes, heavy exercise, body temperature changes, pollution, and cigarette smoke.
COMMON CHARACTERISTICS
 | Breathing difficulty, particularly exhalation |
| Wheezing |
| Coughing |
| Occasionally, a "barrel chest" appearance |
COMMONLY USED MEDICATIONS
| Ventolin |
| Alupent |
| Proventol |
| lbuterol |
| Intal |
FIRST AID
| Encourage self-monitoring, particularly with older learners. |
| Assist the individual with asthma by providing controlled access to inhalers during exercise. |
| Use cool, wet towels on the back of the neck to assist in body temperature control. |
| In the event of an asthma attack, make the individual comfortable and monitor breathing. Seek help if needed. |
TEACHING TIPS
| Watch for fatigue and signs of overexertion like redness in the face. |
| Be sure to include warm-up exercises prior to any vigorous activity. |
| Include breathing control exercises. |
| In a classroom, place the individual with asthma away from the chalkboard to avoid chalk dust. |
| Remind the individual with asthma to drink adequate water during the class period. |
| Encourage diaphragmatic breathing. |
|
Let the individual with asthma be the guide in the level of activity at any given time,
and provide alternate ways to be part of the activity when necessary. |
Links
The Asthma Center Allergy and Asthma Network/Mothers of Asthmatics, Inc.
Information on this sheet contains only suggested guidelines. Each person must be considered individually, and in many cases, a physician's written consent should be obtained. Developed by Texas Woman's University Graduate Adapted Physical Education Program in cooperation with Denton ISD (French, 1997).