ASTHMA and WHEEZING

Is the patient under 5 years old?
Is this your first time to have wheezing?
Are you having worse trouble breathing than usual?
Are you coughing up stuff from your chest?
Is there fever over 102 degrees?

• If yes to any of the above, the patient should be examined by a physician promptly.
• If no, then follow the instructions below.

ACTIVITIES:  Decrease activities till breathing better.  Activities which make you sweat will increase your cough and wheezing.  Avoid dust and smoke.

MEDICATIONS:  There are no over-the-counter medications which are appropriate for treating asthma.  You should take the prescription treatments only under a doctor's supervision.

DIET:  Drink plenty of fluids.  You may eat anything you desire as long as you do not over-eat.

CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR FOR ANY OF THE FOLLOWING:

1. Your breathing becomes more difficult.
2. There is no improvement within 12 hours.
3. You develop fever over 102 degrees Fahrenheit.

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This page was last updated on 19 August 1999.