Asthma Triggers in the Classroom

Asthma is more disruptive of school routines than any other chronic condition. An "Asthma in Schools" survey conducted by The National Association of School Nurses according to a national sample of their members, it has a significant impact on absenteeism and many school staff may lack awareness of the causes of an asthma attack. More than half found asthma to be more disruptive to the student body routine than any other chronic health condition, with more than a third of nurses having to respond to an acute asthma attack or episode at least 11 times in the last school year.

However, with proper treatment and preventative care, it is very controllable, particularly if parents take an active role.

Here are some tips for school-aged children from Margaret Lewis, C.H.E.S., Educational Programs Manager, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

“There are allergy/asthma environmental triggers in the classroom and throughout the school that can make it hard to concentrate. Recognizing these challenges and avoiding them will help you focus on schoolwork and not your symptoms.

Common triggers include:

• Dust mites – Microscopic organisms living in warm, humid environments
• Animals – Proteins in animal dander, urine or saliva
• Mold – Grows where moisture is present (carpets, foods).
• Latex – Erasers, balls, gloves in science labs
• Irritants – Strong odors such as cleaning liquids, science-class chemicals, some art supplies (markers, glue) and chalk dust

What can you do?

• Make sure the school nurse has your asthma management plan.
• Let your teachers know about your asthma and warning sign.
• Know what triggers your symptoms.
• Make sure your inhaler is in the health room or with you, if possible. See if there is a school policy for carrying your inhaler.
  

What if you can’t carry your inhaler?

It is important to have access to your inhaler during school.  Some states have school policies allowing students to carry or use doctor-prescribed inhalers as needed without adult supervision.”  ( ED. NOTE: According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, Pennsylvania is one of the states that protects student rights to possess and self-administer prescribed lifesaving asthma medications and has pending legislation also allowing anaphylaxis medications.)

“Some schools, however, do not allow students to carry their inhalers in school, perhaps as part of a drug use prevention program.  Therefore, policies may require parental consent and permission from a physician.

Carrying and using your inhaler is based on your abilities, maturity, situation at school and school policy.  The school nurse makes sure students who carry inhalers have the skills to follow self-care instructions and are responsible enough NOT to share their inhaler with other students.

If there is a policy, follow the rules.  If you leave your inhaler at home or misplace it, keep a spare in the health room.  Check with your doctor regularly to be sure you are managing your inhaler correctly.  Let the school nurse know if you need to use it at school.  If you have any concerns or questions, discuss them with the school nurse and your physician.  Carrying your inhaler will reduce the chances of an asthma attack, asthma-related school absences and the need for emergency use.

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