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Asthma/asthma cough? --treatment

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Expert: - 1/21/2010


Question
My son has needed Albuterol treatments the past several nights; both early evening and during the night due to wheezing. However, he's developed a constant dry cough which Albuterol doesn't seem to be alleviating.
1)What can I do to alleviate this cough before it causes inflammation etc?
2)A cough suppressant isn't the best treatment for an asthmatic is it already being treated is it?

Answer
Hi Mom :),

He is coughing because of the inflammation. You need to contact the doctor ASAP to get the inflammation under control, and to have him re-evaluated as to the probable need for daily controller medication.

You are correct regarding the cough suppressant. They are generally of no value at all in an asthmatic.

Do you have concerns about him being on a daily controller?

Is he over 5, and, if so, does he have a peak flow meter?

Is he under the care of an allergist?

Let me know the above, and more background information please.

Sincerely,

Marc

Asthma

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Marc Rubin, RPh Asthma Educator

Expertise

I have worked directly with patients as well as caregivers for over 30 years. Have made presentations throughout Illinois educating school nurses as well as the teaching and coaching staff of public schools about asthma, and how they should respond to these students needs. Presented a public education program on asthma through the US Department of Public Health. Specialize in helping guide asthmatic patients to take control of their disease in order to live a near-normal, fully active life.

Experience

Practicing pharmacist for 34 years, specializing in asthma for past 7 years. Statewide education to nurses, teachers and athletic coaches regarding asthma. In addition, and closer to home. my wife and daughter both have asthma, and my son has exercise induced bronchospasm. I'm also on the advisory board of a medical education company, Emmi Solutions, and directly involved in the creation of public education programs for asthma, COPD and diabetes.

Organizations
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) / Sports Medicine Committee, American Thoracic Society (ATS). Chicago Asthma Consortium / Professional Development Committee, Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago: Development Committee for AE-C prep class, and presenter.

Publications
AAAAI PowerPoint on the new guidelines for EIB (Exercise Induced Bronchospasm)

Education/Credentials
BScPharm, RPh, AE-C (NAECB Certified asthma educator), NIPCO Certified Respiratory Care Pharmacist

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