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Here at University Children's Medical Institute, we have specialist nurses and paediatricians to manage asthma and allergies, and also, to explain the role of medication and inhalers and how to avoid common triggers.
Pharmacological Therapy 
Medication is used to reverse and prevent symptoms in asthma and these are known as "relievers" and "preventors".
Relievers are used when there are symptoms in an acute exacerbation of asthma. Corticosteroids are the cornerstone of anti-inflammatory therapy and are still the best form of preventive therapy today.
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The choice of medication and delivery method is customised for every child. While inhalers are still the main choice, there are also new oral alternatives. Detailed training of inhaler use is emphasised and checked at each visit to ensure optimal delivery of medications and to lower the risk of complications.
Topical corticosteroids are the mainstay of management of allergies such as eczema and allergic rhinitis. Oral medications such as antihistamines also play a role in symptom control. Avoidance of known allergens is also prudent. |
Monitoring and Supervision
To ensure that medication and advice for every patient has the optimum impact, we review the progress of each individual carefully.
Our Children's Asthma Action Plan is specially prepared for each and every of our patients.
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- Symptom review - day / night / during exercise
- Activity limitation - school / work / exercise and why
- Compliance - reasons for non-compliance
- Delivery technique checks
- Delivery device checks
- Action plan review / revision
- Evaluation and treatment of concomitant upper airway allergies (allergic rhinitis, sinusitis) and skin allergies (eczema)
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It is also important to address any fears, concerns, questions or doubts in the patient or family, and review their expectations of the treatment. |
