Sleepless with Asthma – I wrote this blog a few years ago, just prior to World Asthma Day in 2012. Maybe another mum or dad out there can relate to what happens when a child starts to learn more about their own health management and begins to rely on us, just that little bit less.
It all came back to me this week – the fear, the worry and the lack of sleep. My daughter Sophie, is now 10. Its been 3 years since her asthma went from chronic to managed.
Three mornings ago, Sophie told me “I used by puffer last night”. I then realised – things have changed – it’s not me anymore that does it all – my little girl is growing up, she can make her own choices and decisions.
Sophie keeps her asthma bag in her room. In the draw – where she chose to put it. A persistent cold triggered the asthma.
I was surprised she didn’t use the spacer and I was surprised she didn’t wake me up, but simply went back to bed.
So we talked about the spacer again, why it’s better to use one. We talked about how she was feeling.
The following nights I slept on the couch so I could be near her if she needed me. Sophie was fine. She didn’t need me, and it only resulted in me not being able to sleep.
The fear of what asthma had been like for Sophie when she was younger – came back to me. I did the same thing again – worry. Then, I took my own advice – I thought it through logically. Looked at the asthma plan. I knew it was mild. I wrote down when medication was given, why and how much. I could see Sophie was ok. We are visiting the doctor this week. We’ll talk about the asthma strategies then, review the asthma plan.
My role as a parent has changed, I’m still support crew, but less of a boss and more of a coordinator.
I read a quote that the biggest problem with asthma is complacency. Let’s never do that.
Always take asthma seriously.
I urge individuals, business and bloggers to support the Asthma Foundation on World Asthma Day 1st of May 2012.
This year, World Asthma Day 2014 – an annual event by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) – will be held on Tuesday 6th of May 2014.
It is also good to support a child who is starting to learn to self manage. The National Asthma have an asthma plan that may suit, but always consult your doctor and have them complete any templates. Designed by Amanda Thomsen and Sandra Wales, Respiratory Clinical Nurse Consultants, the plan is simple and explains with less words and more images. But as always, always consult with your family doctor regarding asthma management.
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