In most children with asthma, difficulty breathing happens periodically. When it does happen, it’s known as an asthma flare-up, or also referred to as an asthma attack or episode. Asthma symptoms can be triggered by all sorts of different things, including allergens, airborne irritants and pollutants, exercise and weather.  But respiratory infections are triggers that are especially important for parents and caregivers to be aware of during the fall and winter months.

During this time of year, 90 percent of asthma flare-ups among children seen at Nationwide Children’s Hospital are related to colds, flu and other respiratory tract infections.  These infections are spread by droplets that are coughed or sneezed into the air. 

The simplest way to help your child avoid a cold or the flu is to keep him away from others who are sick. This is easier said than done, of course. Teach your child some prevention tips, such as washing hands thoroughly and often and not picking up used tissues. 

But even if your child steers clear of sneezers and washes his hands regularly, he still might get a cold or the flu.  If your child has asthma and you have never worked with his pediatrician or your family doctor to develop and asthma action plan, now is an important time to create one.  An asthma action plan will help you control your child’s asthma and know what to do during an asthma flare-up.  It can also be shared with teachers, babysitters and relatives who also need to know how to recognize your child’s asthma symptoms and know what actions to take.

Looking for a doctor for your child?  Call (614) 722-KIDS, Children’s Hospital’s free, 24-hour physician and service referral line.