An asthma attack may be set off by dog or cat fur, perfume, cigarette smoke, dust or pollen, a cold or bronchitis or even stress. 

The first part of an asthma attack is tightening of the airways. This part of an asthma attack is treated with the inhaled medicine, like albuterol.  This can be from a metered dose inhaler (puffer) or from a nebulizer machine. Bad attacks may need a shot of adrenaline (epinephrine.) These medicines work fast and are the first treatment for an asthma attack. They can cause shaking, nervousness and a fast heart rate. 

The second part of an asthma attack is inflammation, or swelling. This makes the inside lining of the airways thicker and make more mucous.  This part of asthma is treated with anti-inflammatory drugs such as steroids. The swelling takes days to resolve and may need big doses of pills or shots of steroids to make it better. 

You and your child need an asthma plan made by your Doctor or Nurse. It is much better to prevent an asthma attack. This may mean taking medicine every day.  Some can be breathed in from a nebulizer and some are liquids or pills.  Each child is different and the medicines all have side-effects, so the dose and time have to be carefully planned for your childs age and how bad their asthma is.  

Part of this asthma prevention program is keeping your child away from things that makes his asthma worse, like cigarette smoke, dust or mold, cats  or dogs or perfume.

Another part is using a Peak Flow Meter (blow bottle) to actually see how good your child is breathing.  This can let you know when to start more treatments, call your Doctor or Nurse,  call 911 or go to the ER.

It's also important to know how to treat a severe attack right away. Always have rescue inhalers near your child, or in his pocket. They need to know how to use them if needed.  Friends, family and teachers can also help, but you need to show them how. 

It is important for you and your child to learn how to control their asthma, instead of allowing the asthma to control you. Prevention, watching for change and a good treatment plan will let your child enjoy school, play sports and other activities without so much anxiety. You must develop the plan with your Doctor or Nurse. Make sure you have your medicine and know your plan for every situation.