Wisconsin DHS Offers Tips for Managing Asthma During Allergy Season

Springtime Challenges: Managing Asthma in Wisconsin’s Youth

Each year, as spring arrives in Wisconsin, it brings with it heightened health challenges for many children. Approximately 550 kids are hospitalized annually due to asthma complications, with an additional 4,800 visits to emergency departments. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is emphasizing the importance of asthma management during May, which is recognized as Asthma Awareness Month.

“Asthma symptoms increase in the spring due to increased allergens like pollen and other environmental triggers that irritate sensitive airways,” stated Paula Tran, the state health officer and administrator of the Division of Public Health. She added, “While there is no cure for asthma, it can be managed with proper treatment and an asthma action plan.”

Asthma is a significant concern in Wisconsin, affecting 1 in 15 children, with 41% struggling with uncontrollable asthma. This condition often leads to school absenteeism, impacting 1 in 3 affected children. Supporting families in managing asthma, the Asthma-Safe Homes Program (ASHP) offers vital assistance.

The ASHP serves Medicaid-eligible children and pregnant individuals suffering from uncontrolled asthma in Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha, and Rock counties. The program provides various services, including educational home visits, assessments to identify asthma triggers, necessary supplies to mitigate these triggers, and potential home repairs to improve living conditions by addressing mold, air quality, and allergens. Over the past three years, these repair and remediation services have reached more than 700 residents in over 100 homes.

For families dealing with asthma, the following strategies can help manage symptoms effectively:

Ensure children take their prescribed medication daily.

Develop an asthma action plan and share it with adults involved in the child’s care, such as teachers and babysitters. Educate children on recognizing symptoms and knowing the appropriate actions to take.

Be aware of common asthma triggers during spring, including pollen, temperature changes, and physical activity.

Monitor local air quality and pollen levels via the DHS Climate and Health webpage.

Keep children indoors when air quality or pollen counts are high.

Use air conditioning rather than opening windows during high pollen or poor air quality days.

After outdoor play, have children shower before bedtime.

Regularly vacuum children’s rooms and wash bedding, clothes, and stuffed animals weekly.

Further information on reducing asthma triggers, establishing an asthma action plan, and applying to ASHP can be found on the DHS Asthma webpage.