Managing Asthma During School Transitions: A Pharmacist’s Guide to Preventing Flare-Ups

Asthma Alerts Issued as School Year Begins: Parents Urged to take Action

August 19,2025

A meaningful increase in asthma-related health issues amongst school-aged children is anticipated in the coming weeks,mirroring a pattern observed annually. Public health officials are now advising parents to proactively prepare for potential exacerbations as children return to classes.

Rising Cases Linked to School Resumption

Health agencies have documented a rapid escalation of asthma incidents in children under 15 years old shortly after the start of the academic year, peaking approximately two weeks into the term. This surge is largely attributed to the heightened exposure to respiratory viruses as community interaction increases following the summer break. Contributing factors may also include exposure to allergens within school environments and interruptions in asthma management routines during the holidays.

Data from September 2024 revealed a marked increase in asthma-related consultations at urgent care facilities – exceeding 6% of all cases – and emergency room visits – surpassing 3% – compared to previous years, according to official public health surveillance reports.

Importance of Consistent Treatment

Health insurance providers are strongly recommending that children who were prescribed asthma medication during the previous school year resume treatment instantly, ideally 7 to 10 days before classes begin. Discontinuing medication without a doctor’s guidance is discouraged, even during temporary breaks like summer vacation. Consistent use of prescribed medications helps maintain control of the disease and prevents dangerous worsening of symptoms.

Parents are encouraged to remain especially vigilant for any signs of respiratory distress in their children. This includes observing for symptoms such as difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest tightness, coughing, and a sensation of suffocation. An asthma exacerbation is generally defined as a sustained increase in respiratory symptoms lasting more than 48 hours.

In situations where symptoms worsen, parents should promptly implement the action plan developed in consultation with their child’s physician or seek medical attention without delay.

Symptom	Severity	Action
Mild Wheezing	Intermittent, not interfering with activity	Follow asthma action plan, monitor symptoms
Moderate Wheezing	Noticeable, affecting sleep or activity	Administer rapid-relief medication, contact doctor if no enhancement
Severe Difficulty Breathing	Significant struggle to breathe, lips/fingertips turning blue	seek immediate emergency medical attention

Did You Know? According to the Asthma and allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases in children. Learn more about asthma statistics here.

Pro Tip: Ensure your child’s school has a copy of their asthma action plan and understands how to administer emergency medication if needed.

Are you prepared for your child’s return to school with their asthma management plan in place? What steps are you taking to proactively address potential challenges this school year?

Understanding Asthma and Seasonal Triggers

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways, causing periodic bouts of wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and coughing. While there is no cure, effective management can significantly improve quality of life. Seasonal changes, particularly the return to school, often trigger asthma flares due to increased exposure to viruses, allergens, and changes in routine.

Beyond the immediate back-to-school period,other common asthma triggers include:

• Pollen
• Dust mites
• Pet dander
• Smoke
• cold air
• Exercise

Managing thes triggers through environmental control measures and adherence to prescribed medication regimens is crucial for long-term asthma control.

Frequently Asked Questions About asthma and School

What is an asthma action plan?

an asthma action plan is a written set of instructions from your doctor outlining how to manage your child’s asthma, including daily medication, how to recognize worsening symptoms, and what to do in an emergency.

Should my child with asthma wear a mask at school?

Wearing a mask can help reduce exposure to respiratory viruses and allergens, potentially minimizing asthma triggers. Consult with your doctor for personalized advice.

How can I help my child manage their asthma at school?

Ensure the school has a copy of your child’s action plan, emergency contact details, and any necessary medications. Communicate with teachers and staff about your child’s needs.

What should I do if my child has an asthma attack at school?

Follow the asthma action plan. If symptoms are severe or do not improve with medication, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.

Is asthma a chronic condition?

Yes, asthma is a chronic respiratory condition. While it cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed with proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments.

Disclaimer: This information is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

Share this article with parents and caregivers! Leave a comment below with your tips for managing asthma during the school year.

What specific facts should be included in an updated Asthma Action Plan shared with the school?

Understanding Asthma & School-Related Challenges

School transitions – weather starting preschool, moving to a new grade, or changing schools altogether – can be particularly stressful for children with asthma. These changes disrupt routines, introduce new environments, and increase exposure to potential asthma triggers. As a pharmacist, I often counsel families on navigating these challenges to minimize asthma flare-ups and ensure a smooth, healthy school year. Understanding common triggers is the first step. According to the NHLBI, common triggers include indoor allergens (dust mites, mold, pet dander), outdoor allergens (pollen, mold), emotional stress, physical activity, and infections like colds or the flu.

pre-Transition Planning: A Collaborative Approach

Effective asthma management requires a proactive,collaborative approach involving parents,schools,and healthcare providers. Here’s a breakdown of essential pre-transition steps:

Asthma Action Plan Update: Ensure your child’s Asthma Action Plan is current and comprehensive. This plan, developed with your doctor, outlines daily medication routines, how to recognise worsening symptoms, and emergency contact information.Share this plan with the school nurse, teachers, and any relevant staff.

Medication Accessibility: Confirm the school’s policies regarding medication administration. Understand the procedures for your child to self-carry and self-administer medication (if permitted by state law and school policy) or how school personnel will assist. Ensure all medications – including rescue inhalers (like albuterol) and controller medications (like inhaled corticosteroids) – are properly labeled and within their expiration dates.

School Habitat Assessment: If possible, visit the school before the transition. Identify potential asthma triggers within the environment.Are there areas with mold? Is there a strong cleaning product scent? Are there pets on school grounds? Discuss these concerns with school administration.

Interaction is Key: Schedule a meeting with the school nurse and teachers to discuss your child’s asthma, potential triggers, and the asthma Action Plan. Open communication fosters a supportive environment and ensures everyone is prepared to respond appropriately.

Common School Triggers & Mitigation Strategies

Schools present unique asthma trigger exposures. Here’s how to address them:

Indoor Allergens:

Dust Mites: Encourage regular cleaning of classrooms and common areas.

Mold: Report any visible mold to school administration for remediation.

Pet Dander: advocate for designated pet-free zones if your child has pet allergies.

Outdoor Allergens:

Pollen: Monitor pollen counts and consider having your child take allergy medication as prescribed on high-pollen days.Keep windows closed during peak pollen seasons.

Irritants:

cleaning Products & Sprays: Request the use of fragrance-free and low-VOC cleaning products.

Chalk Dust: While less common now, chalk dust can be an irritant.

Strong Odors: Be mindful of perfumes, air fresheners, and other strong scents.

Physical Activity:

Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB): Ensure your child uses their rescue inhaler before physical activity as prescribed by their doctor. Warm-up and cool-down periods are also crucial.

Infections:

Colds & Flu: Encourage frequent handwashing and adherence to school policies regarding sick days. Consider annual flu vaccination.COVID-19 remains a consideration; follow current public health guidelines.

Medication Management at School: A Pharmacist’s Perspective

Proper medication management is paramount. Here’s what parents need to know:

1. Spacer Use: If your child uses a metered-dose inhaler (MDI), a spacer is essential to ensure effective medication delivery to the lungs. Ensure the school nurse and your child (if age-appropriate) are trained on proper spacer technique.
2. Medication Storage: Medications should be stored in a secure,designated location,out of reach of other students.
3. Emergency Procedures: The Asthma Action Plan should clearly outline the steps to take in an asthma emergency, including when to administer the rescue inhaler and when to call 911.
4. Refills & Expiration Dates: Regularly check medication expiration dates and ensure refills are obtained promptly. Communicate with the school nurse about any medication changes.

Benefits of Proactive Asthma management in Schools

Investing time in proactive asthma management yields meaningful benefits:

Reduced Asthma Attacks: Minimizing exposure to triggers and ensuring timely medication access substantially reduces the frequency and severity of asthma flare-ups.

Improved School Attendance: Well-managed **asth