If your teenager's doctor has just informed you that they have asthma, feelings may be swirling in your mind. You may feel profound relief because you understand what's been troubling your teenager, but become scared about their ability to manage it. How can you support your teenager as they adjust to their asthma?
Tell People
Most teenagers like to remain private about their personal health issues. Your own teenager might be adamant that no one find out and that everyone treat them "normally." However, there are some people who will need health information so that they can assist your teen if needed. School nurses, coaches, teacher and after-school activity leaders can be taken aside and notified.
You may discuss telling some of your teenager's close friends and their parents. If your teen spends many afternoons with a friend who has a cat, an attack could happen and those inside the house may need to understand what's happening.
Record Triggers
Even if your teenager isn't yet aware, they're likely to have certain asthma triggers which send them into a full attack. While you can't necessarily track what's causing reactions when your teenager is away from you, start looking for instances where they seem to feel less comfortable. For instance, walking into a pet shop could be a painful experience. Compare notes with your teen; your list of possible triggering situations could help them protect themselves.
Encourage Smoking Cessation
It could have been your child's experimentation with cigarette smoking that first alerted you all to their asthma problem. Indeed, cigarettes are unhealthy for all, but for asthmatic teenagers, they trigger attacks and cause real harm. If you believe your teen has already developed a habit or addiction, work with their doctor to explore possible avenues. Your teenager may be able to slowly lessen their cigarette consumption over some weeks or could be eligible for a skin patch.
Get Parental Support
Because teenagers aren't always as compliant with their asthma treatment as younger kids can be, it's vital you know and speak with other parents of asthmatic teens. With their advice, pointers and encouragement, you can ease worries about your teenager's disease and your teen could benefit from their knowledge.
With your help, your asthmatic teen can survive and happily thrive in spite of whatever challenges the disease brings. Keep communicating with them, their school administrators, and their asthma doctor to ensure their care is superb.
Share7 January 2019
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