May 2015
Coordinated Student Health Services Newsletter
“Children need to learn to be healthy and be healthy to learn”
May is National Asthma Awareness Month

Asthma is the leading health condition affecting student
absences

There are over 17,000 students identified with Asthma in
the Broward County Public School system.
Asthma is one of the most common lifelong chronic diseases. There are over
25 million Americans living with asthma, Asthma is a disease affecting the
Lungs causing repeated episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, tightness in
the chest and coughing.
Although asthma cannot be cured, it is possible to manage asthma
successfully to reduce and prevent asthma attacks or episodes. Successful
management of asthma includes recognizing your warning signs, avoiding
you triggers and following the advice of your healthcare provider.
Asthma Medications
Controllers (anti-inflammatory):

Help to prevent an asthma episode

Controls symptoms when taken daily

Will not help in an emergency
Quick Relief Medications:

Fast-acting

Relieve symptoms during an asthma episode

Used as needed
Common Asthma
Triggers
Infections: The #1 trigger for
asthma
Allergens: Animals, dust
mites, cockroach, mold,
pollen, food, latex
Irritants: Smoke, dust,
strong odors, cold air
Behaviors: Emotions,
exercise, smoking
The School Board of Broward County takes great pride in ensuring that your child has
the very best school experience possible. A student with asthma requires a teamwork
approach. This is why trained personnel are provided to help manage your child’s needs
at school.
For additional information contact Coordinated Student Health Services at 754-321-1575