Asthma Education

Asthma is the most common chronic childhood illness. Its treatment is drastically different today than it was ten or twenty years ago. New medications and approaches to management have made asthma an illness that can be controlled with proper care.

Understanding asthma is the most important step in good control. Zaheer Pediatrics currently offers Asthma Management Planning, Pulmonary Function Testing, and Allergy Management. Families of children with asthma or allergies are encouraged to contact our front desk for an appointment with our Asthma Nurse. At each appointment, Deb Hayden will meet with your child and family and help develop a plan of care that will be successful for your child. Written information is given, medications are discussed and reviewed, and questions and concerns are addressed. Afterwards there will be a brief visit with your physician, who will review the plan and examine your child.

Spirometry is a pulmonary function test that measures lung volume and flow rates. It helps determine if lung function is normal and if medication is needed or is helping enough. Individuals with asthma should have yearly spirometry tests to assure normal lung function. Children six years and older can usually perform spirometry. The test is computer based and child friendly. Incentives such as blowing out candles or blowing a kite in the air are used. Most children enjoy performing spirometry testing.

At times, an exercise challenge test using spirometry is needed to determine if exercise is causing wheeze or cough. Children will be advised by their doctor if an exercise challenge test is needed. A treadmill will be used and spirometry testing will be done before and after exercise. Children should wear athletic-type shoes the day of an exercise challenge test.

Asthma and allergy education and spirometry testing are always in addition to a physician visit and co-pay will be required. Appointments may be made at the front desk or by calling 815-802-0022. Plan to be at the office for at least one hour.