If your child frequently coughs, wheezes, or suffers from chest congestion and tightness even if she doesn't have a cold, suspect asthma and talk to your pediatrician right away.
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If your child is over 5 and has been diagnosed with asthma, be sure to keep up with his peak-flow meter readings, which measure the strength of his breathing. If the meter values start to fall, it may be a sign of an impending asthma attack.
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Allow your child to play and exercise as normal, but take special steps to protect him from asthma triggers in the environment. Make sure your child has immediate access to his inhaler and other medication at school.
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Ensure your child takes her medication and uses her nebulizer or inhaler as directed by the doctor.