Merck Frosst
Patients and Caregivers

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition of the airways, which makes them smaller, thus making it difficult for the child to breath.

Asthma is not an emotional or mental condition, nor is it contagious. Strong emotions, however, can lead to an asthma attack.

Exercise and other activities are safe and good for most children with asthma, although certain precautions may be advised. Ask the child's parent.

Asthma can be effectively controlled in most children, allowing them to lead normal lives. A child's treatment can combine two medications:

1
A quick relief medicine
  • Taken only when needed, during attacks or when asthma is triggered by exercise
  • Acts quickly to relieve asthma symptoms
  • A child with asthma should always carry a quick relief medicine
2
A daily medicine (controller/preventer)
  • Taken daily
  • Acts slowly, over time
  • Prevents attacks and maintains control of asthma symptoms

This site is for residents of Canada. / This site was updated on October 26, 2011.