Asthma is the most common long-term health condition affecting children in the UK, impacting around one in every 11 children and young people. This highlights the need for parents and caregivers to stay informed about asthma management.
Why is asthma serious?
Many people think of asthma as a minor issue, but it can be serious. It’s important to take asthma seriously to help prevent symptoms and asthma attacks.
Weekend Childhood Asthma Review Clinics
This summer, Salford Southeast PCN GPs are offering weekend Childhood Asthma Clinics to support families.
Where: Pendleton Gateway, Salford, M6 5FX
When: Saturdays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
To book an appointment, please call the PCN hub at 0161 507 2368. Remember to download the https://digitalhealthpassport.co app before your visit.
The importance of annual Asthma Reviews
An annual asthma review is crucial for managing your child’s condition. These reviews can help keep symptoms at bay and lower the risk of asthma attacks. During the clinic, you can discuss:
- Symptoms that affect daily life
- Past asthma attacks or fears about having one
- How medications work and their potential side effects
- Tips to stop smoking and avoid asthma triggers
Even if you feel your child’s asthma is well-managed, regular reviews are essential. Good asthma control allows children to participate fully in their daily activities without unplanned time off from school or activities.
What to expect at the asthma review
During the asthma review, the practice nurse will check how well your child is managing their asthma. Here are some things that might happen:
Breathing tests: Simple tests like spirometry or peak flow can show how well your child’s lungs are working.
Inhaler technique: The nurse will check how your child uses their inhaler to ensure they’re taking their medications effectively.
Asthma attack risk: You’ll discuss how to lower the risk of an asthma attack and how to recognise and treat one if it occurs.
Action plan: The nurse may update your child’s written action plan with any new medications or changes.
Medication review: The nurse will look over your child’s medications and arrange any necessary re-authorisations.
Preparing for your asthma review
To get the most out of your appointment, consider the following tips:
- Write down any questions you have for the practice nurse.
- Keep a log of symptoms, including triggers and missed medications.
- Bring all inhalers and spacers to the appointment.
- If you have a written action plan, please bring that too.
- Be open about any factors that may be worsening your child’s asthma.
Look out for your Child Asthma Review invite
Remember, the Childhood Asthma Clinics are available:
Where: Pendleton Gateway, Salford
When: Saturdays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
To book your appointment, contact the PCN hub at 0161 507 2368.
Remember to download the https://digitalhealthpassport.co app ahead of time. The app will help you access your action plan, watch inhaler technique videos, receive medication reminders, track symptoms, and provide alerts to support asthma care.
For more information, or why not join the Asthma.org.uk summer steps challenge for better breathing?