Asthma Kid Bill of Rights

Do you have an asthma kid at home? The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology reports that almost 8.9 million children had asthma in the year 2005 in the United States while the Centers for Disease Control (C.D.C.) reports 6.7 million during 2007. For those of you who do have asthmatic child at home or know parents who do, I have included this Bill of Rights for Children with Allergies and Asthma supplied by the Allergy and Asthma Network – Mothers of Asthmatics.

Asthma Kid Bill of Rights

A child with asthma and allergies and his/her family have the right to:

  • Be presented with the proven scientific facts of asthma and allergies in a manner that raises appropriate concerns and avoids needless anxiety.
  • Be cared for by a supportive physician who provides preventive management of asthma and allergies as well as treatment for acute episodes.
  • Live in a smoke-free environment where reasonable attempts at eliminating relevant allergens are made.
  • Have full and personal access to appropriate medications and devices so that potential scholastic, athletic, and social achievements are not limited by otherwise uncontrolled asthma or allergies.
  • Learn self-management skills to minimize dependence on medical personnel, emergency clinics, and hospitalizations.
  • Expect teachers, school nurses, coaches, camp counselors, and other adults entrusted with their care to understand the enlightened handling of children with asthma and allergies.

Much has been written about preventing asthma attacks by maintaining control over potential airborne triggers or allergens. However, here are some little known tips which are proven to control these potential asthma allergens in the home environment. A recent 2008 poll of asthma sufferers indicated some confusion regarding the proper methods of reducing asthma allergens in the home. And to compound the situation, health practitioners do not have a good understanding of the technologies available to help their patients while in their home environment.

Technology to the Rescue
Utilizing the proper technology combined with the knowledge of how to use that technology will make the greatest reduction of asthma-causing allergens in the home environment. Many asthma allergens fall into the broad category of airborne particles which must be removed from the environment on an ongoing basis. High Efficient Particle Air (H.E.P.A.) filter technology can drastically reduce asthma symptoms within days from its initial use. However, H.E.P.A. filtration devices must be used regularly to keep the asthma-causing allergens at bay.