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For any parent, helping a child learn about healthy living with asthma is, quite literally, a matter of life and death. If you too are an asthmatic then the lessons will come easier as you've learned from experience what to watch out for and what to stay away from. A child doesn't have that experience, and for a parent who has never suffered from an asthma attack to try and pass on those skills can be a tall order indeed. More than just physical awareness you also need to deal with self-esteem matters. Too many children end up believing they're not as capable as other kids their age simply because of their asthma, and helping them to overcome that misconception is just as important as teaching them about the warning signs. Healthy living with asthma is about more than just avoiding situations and reacting to the needs of the body. Kids want to be active, and it's that activity that can actually help with the coping process. Too many parents, especially those who haven't had asthma themselves, take an overprotective role. The after effect of this can lead to children who shy away from regular exercise and never want to engage in physical play. While it takes time, it is possible to overcome the regular use of rescue inhalers for many asthmatics. Make sure you completely understand just how severe your child's asthma is. How they cope and what their limitations are can vary wildly among different asthma sufferers. Mild asthma is occasionally outgrown, while more severe cases can still be managed by practicing healthy living with asthma. This means that regular, low impact, cardiovascular workouts aren't out of the question. Even in more active sports, it is possible for a moderate asthma sufferer to participate, so long as they're aware of the signs their bodies are giving them. In some cases, keeping a few home remedies on hand can help encourage healthy living with asthma. Certain teas can help ease breathing, coffee can actually stop some mild asthma attacks and some foods can actually act as preventative agents. A little research will go a long way in this regard and if an herbal practitioner can be found they can actually be a wealth of information. Of course, consulting with your regular doctor first is advisable as well, as they can provide some more practical advice on how to deal with your child's asthma. Needless to say, regular check-ups are a must for asthmatic children. s a parent, it's important that you encourage your child, regardless of any physical limitations he or she might have. Asthma isn't a death sentence, just a hindrance to be overcome and many children can. Asthma sufferers have even gone on to become professional athletes, Olympic medalists and famous musicians. Letting a medical condition dictate your child's life choices is a step in the wrong direction, and as a parent it's contrary to everything we know about what good parenting means. Instead of letting your child hide behind their condition, make sure you encourage rather than discourage. Teach them good habits and how to take care of themselves if they do have an attack. Many asthmatics are able to get control of their breathing without the need for medicine and in time your child will learn those skills as well. It doesn't happen overnight, but with some research, a little good advice from a medical professional and a lot of patience your child stands a strong chance of overcoming their asthma. All a parent can do is help them and be there when they're needed.
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