For Kids: Living Well with As... Health Article

You like to stay busy with your favorite activities and hobbies. But you may be afraid asthma will slow you down. Do your best to control your asthma. Then you can do all the things you like to do!

You Are a Winner

You have your own special talents and interests. There is no one else just like you! Having asthma makes you a responsible person, too. Take pride in how you help control your asthma. With your asthma in control, you can follow your dreams.

Asthma Triggers: What You Can Do

Being around certain things can cause asthma to flare up. These things are called asthma triggers. Learn to stay away from asthma triggers or control them. It's okay to ask other people to help. Here are some problems you may face and what you can do to solve them:

• Problem: Your friend invites you to his house. You are allergic to his cat.

  What you can do: Invite your friend to your house instead. Or, play outside.

• Problem: Your bedroom is still dusty, even after your parents help you clean it. Dust flares up your asthma.

  What you can do: Keep your books and toys dust-free by putting them in boxes with lids.

• Problem: You have P.E. on a hot, smoggy day. Your asthma might flare up.

  What you can do: Tell your teacher that because of your asthma it's best if you exercise--or at least warm up--indoors.

Help Others Understand

People who don't have asthma may not know how it makes you feel. Try not to get angry with them. Instead, help them learn more about asthma. If you're afraid to speak up, ask your parents what words to say. These pictures show some things you can say to your family, friends, teachers, and other adults.

Your Asthma Buddy

It can also help to have an asthma buddy—a kid who has asthma just as you do. You might find this special friend at school, on your team, or in your neighborhood. You and your asthma buddy can look out for each other. And you can count on each other to understand.

Your Asthma Team

Your parents and your doctor work with you as a team. They can help you understand asthma and make your life easier. Tell them how you feel. They may have good ideas about what to do. And if you are not sure how to take your medication or if your asthma flares up, be sure to tell them.