September asthma attacks Posted or Updated on 20 Sep 2024

Beware the September Surge in asthma attacks!

Every September there is a surge in children and young people being hospitalised because of their asthma, which is linked to changes in weather and an increase in exposure to triggers such as seasonal viruses when children return to school. 

Children may also stop using their preventer regularly in the summer months.

Dr Sarah-Jane Foxton, Consultant Paediatrician and HNY clinical lead for children and young people’s asthma transformation, said:

 “There is always a spike in the number of children and young people suffering asthma attacks in September, which can be very serious and even life-threatening. It is vital to ensure children with asthma take their preventer inhaler as instructed by their GP or asthma nurse. Preventer medication reduces the inflammation in your child’s lungs, preventing asthma symptoms and attacks.”

Asthma varies from one child to the next, but most types of asthma can be managed well by using a preventer inhaler every day to control their asthma. 

A rescue (often blue) inhaler may be needed occasionally if symptoms flare up but if this is regularly needed more than twice a week or needed at night, make an appointment at your GP practice/Asthma team.  

Every child with a diagnosis of asthma should also have an annual asthma review, where their inhaler technique is checked and they are provided with an up-to-date asthma action plan.

Dr Foxton added: “The annual asthma review is one of the most important tools we have for keeping children well, and out of hospital. If your child is overdue their review, or is due one soon, I would strongly advise booking in the next few weeks to make sure their asthma management is optimal ahead of the return to school and the onset of winter."