What to do if a student has asthma?
Olivia Shea
Updated on February 25, 2026
Actions to take if your child has an asthma attack Help them to sit up – don’t let them lie down. Try to keep them calm. Help them take one puff of their reliever inhaler (with their spacer, if they have it) every 30 to 60 seconds, up to a total of 10 puffs.
How Does asthma affect a student?
Students with asthma sometimes experience lower self-esteem. Students’ academic success can be affected by the missed class time and absenteeism. Some students with asthma feel anxious about participating in physical education or other activities, because they’re afraid they will experience an asthma episode.
When a student is having an asthma episode?
Common symptoms of an asthma episode include one or more of these: coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, shortness of breath and breathing hard and/or fast. if the student is struggling to breathe, talk, stay awake, has blue lips, or asks for an ambulance.
How do schools deal with asthma?
Back To School: How To Deal With Asthma Attacks
- carry their emergency inhaler (albuterol) on them at all times, especially at school.
- use their albuterol inhaler 15-20 minutes before recess if they are an exercise-induced asthmatic.
- keep their medication to themselves.
How can a teacher help a child with asthma?
Reduce known allergens in the classroom to help students who have allergies and asthma. Common allergens found in classrooms include chalk dust, animals, and strong odors (perfumes, paints). Encourage the student with asthma to participate in physical activities, but make sure they follow proper precautions.
Is asthma a special need?
Yes. In both the ADA and Section 504, a person with a disability is someone who has a physical or mental impairment that seriously limits one or more major life activities, or who is regarded as having such impairments. Asthma and allergies are usually considered disabilities under the ADA.
What can schools do to support students with asthma?
Establish management and support systems for asthma-friendly schools. 2. Provide appropriate school health and mental health services for students with asthma. 3. Provide asthma education and awareness programs for students and school staff. 4. Provide a safe and healthy school environment to reduce asthma triggers.
What is the prevalence of asthma in schools?
Asthma in Schools. Asthma is a leading chronic illness among children and adolescents in the United States. It is also one of the leading causes of school absenteeism. On average, in a classroom of 30 children, about 3 are likely to have asthma. Low-income populations, minorities, and children living in inner cities experience more emergency…
What are some interesting facts about asthma?
Asthma Facts. Asthma is a leading chronic illness among children and adolescents in the United States. It is also one of the leading causes of school absenteeism. On average, in a classroom of 30 children, about 3 are likely to have asthma.
What is the Lung Association doing for schools?
Asthma in Schools – The Lung Association provides several resources and effective asthma management programs to assist schools in their efforts to improve student’s health and well-being. Asthma Basics – Information including What is Asthma? and How is Asthma Diagnosed? and information about asthma episodes.