Watching your children play the sports they are passionate about can be such a joy as a parent! But what if your child also is at risk of suffering an asthma attack at any point while playing? Having a child with asthma can be anxiety-inducing if he or she loves to exercise.

Protecting your child from danger as well as encouraging a healthy lifestyle can seem like an impossible task! Luckily, our team at AFC Urgent Care Easley treats asthma often in children, and we offer some easy-to-follow guidance below.

Should I Be Worried If My Child With Asthma Wants to Play Sport?

If your child’s asthma is under control and is typically predictable, there is usually no reason why sports should not be encouraged.

Fostering a love for athletics while your child is young helps set up a positive relationship with exercise later in life. If your child is ready to participate in sports, trying some low-intensity sports is a great place to start.

Low-Intensity Sports

• Golf
• Baseball
• Biking
• Short-distance track and field events

Which Sports Can My Child Not Play If He Has Asthma?

Usually there are no sports that are 100% off-limits if your child has asthma. However, endurance sports can prove to be more troublesome due to their minimal rest time. Soccer and cross country are two sports that are sometimes more difficult to manage. When the temperature dips and it gets cold outside, all outdoor sports can also be harder for your child as well because the air gets thinner.

That being said, the increased risk of difficulty doesn’t mean these types of sports are not allowed. By simply encouraging more training, ensuring inhalers are up to date and being supportive and flexible for your child, there is no reason not to support his or her future sports career!

Tips to Help a Child With Asthma

• Scarves or gloves can be used to breathe through when it gets cold.
• Keep up to date on prescriptions and doctor’s appointments.
• Check the pollen count often and avoid exercise on high-count days.
• Always warm up and cool down properly.

If you think your child’s asthma is getting worse, come see us at AFC Urgent Care Easley!