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Definition

For Kids: Help Others Understand Asthma

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People who don’t have asthma may not know how it makes you feel. Help them learn more about asthma. If you don't know what to say, ask your parents or your health care provider for help. Here's an example of what you can say to your family, friends, teachers, and other adults: "When my asthma gets worse, I feel like I can't get air into my lungs no matter how hard I breathe."

It can also help to have an asthma buddy—another child who has asthma like you do. You might find this friend at school, on a team, or in your neighborhood. You and your asthma buddy can look out for each other. And you can count on each other to understand.


Your asthma team

Health care provider showing girl how to use metered-dose inhaler with spacer and mask.

You, your parents, and your health care provider work together as a team. They can help you control your asthma symptoms to help make your life easier. Tell them how you're feeling. They may have good ideas about what to do. If you need help taking your medicine or if your asthma begins to get worse, be sure to tell them.

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