Teachers told there is ‘no such thing as mild asthma’

A campaign targeting Scottish schools is advising teachers to call an ambulance if they are worried about a child with asthma ‘at any time’

18th October 2023, 12:22pm

Tes reporter

Teachers told there is ‘no such thing as mild asthma’

A campaign has been launched in Scottish schools to challenge the idea that asthma can be “mild” - by warning teachers they may need to dial 999 for an asthma sufferer.

Asthma + Lung UK Scotland has launched the campaign aimed at helping schools to spot the first signs of an asthma attack.

The common condition is often misconceived as “mild”, says the charity, which wants urgent steps to be taken in schools if a pupil’s symptoms do not improve.

Around 71,000 youngsters have asthma in Scotland, and in 2021-22 1,437 children ended up in hospital requiring emergency care because of their asthma.

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Children with asthma have more sensitive, inflamed airways, which cause reactions to things like colds and viruses, pollen, dust mites, pollution and stress.

Coughing, wheezing, feeling out of breath and having a tight chest are all symptoms.

Asthma attack advice for schools

A poster with five lifesaving tips has been created for schools, along with a card for parents of an asthmatic child to fill in to update staff.

Joseph Carter, head of Asthma + Lung UK Scotland, said: “We’re launching this awareness campaign because there is no such thing as mild asthma - as anyone with the condition could end up having a potentially life-threatening asthma attack.”

He said common signs that a child might be at risk of an asthma attack included: increased coughing, especially when doing activities; wheezing; and a tight chest.

Mr Carter added: “Symptoms vary, which is why it’s important that all caregivers, including teachers as well as parents, are familiar with a child’s individual triggers and red flags. These can be shared via the school asthma card, which can be downloaded from our website.

“It is also vital to know what to do in an emergency. Following these five steps if a child is having an asthma attack could be lifesaving.”