Is it safe for my child to be active if they have asthma?

Yes. Being active is very important for your child’s physical and mental health. If your child receives the right asthma treatment, he can take part in his favorite activities.

Asthma should not limit what your child can and cannot do. With the help of your child’s care team, you can find ways for your child to take part in his favorite physical activities.

Will exercising or playing outdoors make my child sick?

No. Children do not catch colds by being outside in cold weather. They catch colds from other people who are sick. This is more likely to happen indoors than outdoors. In fact, exercising or playing outdoors has many benefits for your child. This includes improving overall health, feeling happier and less stressed and concentrating better on schoolwork.

Sometimes, cold air outside can trigger asthma symptoms. Ask the care team for tips on how to manage your child’s asthma symptoms when the weather gets colder.

What is an asthma flare?

An asthma flare is when a person’s asthma symptoms worsen and make it hard for the person to breathe. Asthma attacks rarely happen without any warning – usually there are signs (such as cough or shortness of breath) warning a person that their asthma is acting up.

If you notice these signs that your child’s asthma is acting up, follow the steps in his Asthma Action Plan. If your child does not have an Asthma Action Plan, ask his health care provider to create one with you.

Most asthma attacks can be prevented by consistent and correct use of controller medications. If you have any questions about your child’s controller medications, talk with your child’s health care provider.

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Rev. 7/2018. Mass General for Children and Massachusetts General Hospital do not endorse any of the brands listed on this handout. This handout is intended to provide health information so that you can be better informed. It is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to treatment of any medical conditions.