Let’s beat “the Spike” together, Ontario!
Summer is far from over, but parents everywhere know that back-to-school season is just around the corner. For the families of the one in five children who live with asthma, August is the best time of year to set up healthy habits that will prevent asthma flare-ups in the classroom and on the playground come September.
Why do asthma attacks happen more often – or “spike” – in September?
Experts think that the cold virus is the main cause of asthma flare-ups in September. When kids go back to school, it’s back to close quarters with classmates – and the viruses they carry. Viruses like the common cold are the #1 cause of asthma flare-ups in children.
It is also suspected that kids may be returning to school with poorly managed asthma if they’ve spent the summer out of their regular asthma management routine. Other possible reasons for flare-ups? Allergic triggers at school, like mould and dust, or even seasonal outdoor triggers like pollen.
Remember, our Lung Health Line is open year-round, and Certified Respiratory Educators are standing by to give you the advice you need to beat the September Spike.
From the staff and volunteers at The Lung Association – Ontario, we wish you a happy and healthy end to summer 2019!
