asthma care
Historically, the number of people with asthma in Ohio has been much higher than national numbers. Locally, recent data shows that the numbers in Dayton are even higher. That’s why having a team specialized in the care of children with asthma in the Dayton region is so important. Our doctors and nurses have extensive background in caring for children with asthma and personalize each child’s care plan according to his or her needs while following the care guidelines developed by the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program. They also work closely with parents and caregivers to help them manage the condition at home and lead our patient’s to live normal lives.
Patients with asthma symptoms who are 5 years old or older may undergo diagnostic testing during a clinic visit. These tests may include a pulmonary function test, as well as other tests, such as exhaled nitric oxide test, exercise-induced bronchospasm or a methacholine challenge. They can help our team make an initial diagnosis of asthma, determine whether other pulmonary conditions are causing symptoms, and evaluate how well medications are working. If your child is diagnosed with asthma, our team will work with you to provide education.
If needed, an in-home asthma care program, BREATHE, is available through Children’s Home Care of Dayton. This program consists of education, a home assessment, and equipment and supplies if needed (pillows, mattress covers and vacuum cleaners) that help reduce the likelihood of an asthma attack.
Our clinic team also offers one-on-one education for asthma patients and their families. For more information or to schedule, please call Belinda Huffman, BS, RRT-CPFT, RCP, at 937-641-3266 or Leora Langdon, RN, CPNP, at 937-641-5582.
inpatient asthma care
An asthma attack is a scary experience for children and families. At Dayton Children’s, our team of doctors, nurses and respiratory therapists are here to help! We offer an aggressive inpatient program to help children get their symptoms under control quickly and learn how to minimize future asthma attacks.
This comprehensive program usually involves a hospital stay of less than 24 hours. Patients receive:
- High-intensity breathing therapy
- A personalized asthma action plan, including medication changes
- Educational materials to help families manage asthma from home
- A follow-up appointment in our clinic within one to three weeks
Dayton Asthma Alliance
The Dayton Asthma Alliance aims to positively impact the health and wellness of children with asthma in the Dayton area, focusing on the most at-risk populations. Children with asthma are often limited in their ability to live to their fullest potential, have increased absences from school and are more likely to be hospitalized. The Dayton Asthma Alliance engages local, state and national members, as well as other partner organizations, to collaboratively implement a variety of strategic actions to improve outcomes for children with asthma. Learn more
