Asthma in Children - BTS Guidelines Flashcards
What tests are recommended for initial diagnosis of asthma in children?
Diagnosis should be based on clinical history, symptoms, spirometry, and bronchodilator responsiveness. For children under 5, clinical judgement is more heavily relied upon.
What is the role of spirometry in diagnosing asthma in children?
Spirometry is recommended for children aged 5 years and older to assess lung function and help diagnose asthma.
What is Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) used for in asthma diagnosis?
FeNO is used to measure airway inflammation and is particularly helpful in diagnosing eosinophilic asthma.
How should asthma monitoring be conducted in children?
Asthma monitoring should include regular reviews to assess control, identify triggers, and adjust treatment based on control status, involving both symptom assessments and objective measures like spirometry or peak flow monitoring.
What is the purpose of preventer medication in asthma management?
Inhaled corticosteroids are central to the long-term management of asthma, adjusted based on the level of asthma control to prevent chronic symptoms and manage inflammation.
What medications are used for acute asthma management in children?
Management of acute asthma involves the prompt use of short-acting beta agonists (SABA), and possibly oral corticosteroids, with hospital admission for severe cases.
What should be included in a child’s asthma action plan?
The action plan should detail how to manage routine and acute asthma, including medication dosages, when to seek help, and how to manage exacerbations.
What educational aspects are important in managing asthma in children?
Education should cover understanding asthma triggers, proper medication use, handling emergencies, and should involve both children and their caregivers.
