Asthma in Schools: A Guide for Students, Teachers, and Families

8 hours ago

2 min read

A student with asthma spends a large part of their day at school. Therefore, good asthma management is important not only at home, but also in the classroom, playground, and gymnasium. Missed school days due to asthma are one of the most common reasons for absenteeism in childhood. With proper preparation, this situation can be largely changed.

For students

Always keep your inhaler with you. Find out your school's medication policy; decide in advance whether you'll carry your inhaler in your bag or keep it in the infirmary.
Don't hide your symptoms. Coughing or using an inhaler in class is nothing to be ashamed of. Tell your teacher immediately if you feel unwell.
Have a trusted friend know. A friend who knows where the inhaler is during an attack can be very helpful.
Participate in physical education. If your asthma is under control, you don't need to be exempt from sports class. Don't skip warm-ups and take breaks when needed.

For teachers

Identify the students with asthma in your class. Ask the parents for a copy of the action plan.
Recognize the signs of an attack. Persistent coughing, wheezing, difficulty speaking, and breathing with the shoulders raised are all signs to watch out for.
Allow the use of inhalers. Quick access to medication for the student is vital.
Know what to do in an emergency. Do not leave the student alone, ensure they sit upright, help them use their inhaler, and call 112 if you see any danger signs.
Remember the plan for trips and activities. Make sure you have your inhaler and action plan with you for extracurricular activities.

Classroom environment

Classroom air can be a significant trigger for students with asthma. Simple precautions make a difference:

Avoid strongly scented cleaning products, air fresheners, and perfumes. It's best to clean after classes have finished, if possible.
A whiteboard can be used instead of chalk dust; odorless whiteboard markers can be chosen.
Ventilate the classroom regularly; however, avoid leaving windows open for extended periods during hours of high outdoor air pollution.
Watch out for signs of dampness and mold; report any visible mold to the school administration.
Classroom pets and furry materials can trigger allergies in some students.

For families

Talk to the teachers and school administration before school starts.
Provide the school with an updated action plan and a spare inhaler if needed.
Regularly check the inhaler's expiration date and dose counter.
Ask your child if they experience symptoms at school and how often they use their inhaler. Frequent symptoms at school may indicate that the treatment needs to be reviewed.
Remember that viral infections and outbreaks increase in the fall after school starts. Pay particular attention to the regular use of preventive medications during this period.

For an asthma-friendly school

An asthma-friendly school is one where asthma is understood, teachers learn basic attack management, and the classroom environment is kept free of triggers. This change often begins when a student, a parent, or a teacher raises the issue.

This article is for informational purposes only. Work with your doctor to create an action plan for your child's school.