Information for Parents
Helping Kids Sleep
If you have a young child with asthma, you may have worn a path from your bedroom to your child's, attending to his needs at all hours of the night. The coughing, the restlessness — all make it difficult for your child — and you — to get a good night's sleep. Here are a few tips to help ease those long nights:
- Many medicines can cause irritability and sleeplessness. Talk to your child's doctor about changing your child's medication schedule to help avoid these side effects. Don't change medications without the doctor's permission.
- Prop up your child. Prop up your child's pillows to keep mucus from draining into his throat which causes coughing.
- Try a washable security blanket. If your child's favorite bed partner is a furry, dust-trapping, stuffed animal, try to replace it with a washable blanket, and wash it weekly.
- Be careful of dehumidifiers. Although dehumidifiers can reduce dust mites, the reduced moisture may irritate your child's nose and lungs.
- Steer clear of caffeine. Many foods, drinks, and medicines contain caffeine. Read all labels.
