Asthma and COVID-19: How to stay healthy

Although COVID-19 generally affects older people more severely than kids, people with asthma are at increased risk for breathing trouble and related complications with any viral respiratory tract infection.

Help your child breathe easily with the following tips

1. Stay on top of medications

Keep enough of your child’s prescription medications on hand for at least the next few weeks. If you need updated prescriptions, call the doctor before you run out. It’s also a good idea to check with the doctor about possibly having a short course of steroid (prednisone) to keep at home in case of emergency.

Make sure your child continues to regularly take their daily maintenance or controller medications. If you notice an increase in asthma symptoms, follow their Asthma Action Plan. If you don’t know what an Asthma Action Plan is, give us a call. We’re here to help.

2. Avoid triggers

If you know your child’s asthma triggers, avoid them as much as you can. This will help keep their lungs healthy and clear. Upper respiratory tract viral infections (colds) are the most common asthma triggers, but hopefully with social distancing they’ll be less likely to get a cold right now. Other common asthma triggers include dust mites, mold and cigarette smoke when staying inside, and pollens and exercise when outside.

Need help identifying your child’s asthma triggers? Talk to your doctor or asthma educator.

3. Create consistency

Stress is something that can make asthma symptoms worse. With kids home from school, it is helpful to find ways to create a routine so they know what to expect during the day.

4. Stay home

The Governor has issued a stay-at-home order to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. It is important to understand that this includes avoiding playdates with friends except over the internet or telephone. This is a time that your family can create new traditions like game nights or reading times. Your child can still play in the yard or go for a walk to get some fresh air.

Don’t forget about yourself!

As a parent, give yourself a break. There is a lot going on and none of us can be the perfect parent, worker and teacher all at the same time. If we let go of some of these unrealistic expectations we can better care for our kids and enjoy our time together more!

You Can Control Asthma Now (UCAN)

If you have questions or concerns about your child’s asthma, stay in touch with their doctor and call our You Can Control Asthma Now (UCAN) program at 804-628-UCAN (8226).

We’re also offering convenient appointments from the comfort and safety of your home through telehealth. To have a virtual visit, you just need a mobile device, tablet or computer with internet connection. Learn more about telehealth or ask about it when you call!