4.4.13

Being Newly Diagnosed With Asthma: My Son's Experience

Growing up, I went to school with other children who had asthma, but had never experienced it or been around anyone in our family who had it. However, once I had children of my own, this completely changed. Being newly diagnosed with asthma can be scary and life-changing, but it doesn't have to be!

Liam, my youngest, was born 5 weeks early and his lungs were not fully developed. He spent 2 weeks in the hospital until his lungs were strong enough to help him breath on his own. When he was about 2 years old, I noticed he had trouble catching his breath while playing outdoors with his brother. Plus, I also often noticed a wheezing noise when he was breathing. We went to the doctor after one particular bad attack that caused him trouble breathing. This is when we found out he has asthma, which means the sides of his lungs cause the airways to become narrowed and inflamed. At this point, I was so worried about what this would mean for him and for our family. How much would our lives change?
My very active little asthmatic!
What I most regret is not realizing Liam was asthmatic earlier on. I had noticed his wheezing, but thought nothing of it. Now that we do know for sure that he has asthma, I am the type of mom who wants to know everything about the diagnosis, which is why I was excited to find out about Optimal Life: The Essentials of Asthma with Dr. Christine Lee. The set includes a very educational book along with a two-disc DVD set full of information about asthma.

Not only have I learned that millions of Americans are diagnosed with asthma each year, but also that I don't have to fear for my child. The book goes right along with the DVDs and presents the information in and interesting way, which kept me watching and learning. Even my children watched parts of the DVDs and were excited to share their newly learned knowledge with their Papa.

Also, the set includes information on how we can control and manage asthma. We have breathing treatments for attacks, but there are many other ways we can help decrease the chance of attacks. We've learned that there are triggers for his attacks, so we've worked to avoid those triggers. For example, allergies are a huge trigger for Liam, so we have spent a bit more time indoors during these early spring months when pollen is in the air. This has really helped reduce his breathing issues associated with asthma!

Knowledge really is power. When I heard from the doctor for the first time that Liam was diagnosed with asthma, I almost cried, unsure of what this meant. Now that I've received Optimal Life: The Essentials of Asthma, I feel equipped and ready for whatever happens in the future. Not only do I know more about what to expect, but ways I can help my son. I feel reassured that he can lead a full, happy and healthy life. Asthma does not (and has not) slowed him down one bit! I honestly couldn't ask for anything more!

A tip I offer to someone else who is newly diagnosed is to learn as much as you can about asthma. For the first few months, I was very curious about asthma and had many questions, so when I thought of something to ask the doctor, I would write it down. That way I wouldn't forget and could take the list with me during our check-up visits. Never be afraid to ask a question because the doctor is there to help!
Do you have asthma? 
If so, what is your advice or tip you would like to share with others who are newly diagnosed? 

For more information about Dr. Christine Lee and her amazing accomplishments, click here!

Disclosure: This is a sponsored compensated post, though all opinions included are 100% my own. 

12 comments:

BrettBMartin said...

I haven't heard of Dr Lee. Interesting. What a great resource for families

The Freebie Junkie said...

Its wonderful that you have a wonderful resource to help you navigate asthma for your child.

Mama Chocolate said...

I had asthma when I was little, but outgrew it when I was about 7, (not uncommon, apparently!)
I've heard that chiropractic care can make a huge difference or even cure some people of asthma, so that might be worth a try! :-)

Anonymous said...

I was diagnosed at an early age, so I hardly remember the details. I agree with your tip, learn as much as you can. I would also carry around a notebook and jot down everything about an attack. What food were eaten, the environment (was it humid, raining, hot, etc.) because foods and environmental allergies can trigger an asthma attack.

Unknown said...

I have a smaller lung capacity so my breathing is a bit abnormal, but I don't have full-blown asthma. I did have to avoid exercises that would leave me breathless and avoid being near a lot of allergens. My childhood best friend actually did have asthma and we shared a lot of interests because our health conditions led us to seek out activities that would be okay for us. I'm glad that there's a resource out there for parents who want to know how they can understand and better help their child with asthma. It's probably relieving to know that having asthma doesn't mean that your child's life will not be fulfilling. And it's reassuring to know what you can do for your child to make his/her life easier. It's also nice to know that there are others that are going through the same thing and feeling like you have support. I definitely agree about asking the doctor whatever questions you have.

Unknown said...

My little brother had asthma when he was a baby. Had it pretty bad too from what I remember. He outgrew it and lives a very normal life now... ok,, I don't know anyone who knows him that would agree he was normal...but, you know what I mean.

SalemMomma said...

My oldest was diagnosed with asthma when she was young, but thankfully she grew out of it as she got older. I have the same tip you had, to research as much as you can, and talk to your doctor about every little question you have.

Unknown said...

I am proud of you

Mimi N said...

I don't have asthma, but a good friend does. I know she had to do a lot with steroids, but that was a long time ago. Now my boyfriend and his son have it and I think I'm going to have to learn a new way of living.

Denise Taylor-Dennis said...

My daughter has asthma. Thankfully her case is not too bad and seems to mostly flare up with allergies.

Optimal Life said...

Thank you for sharing Liam's story and for reviewing our product. We agree it is imperative to learn as much as possible if you are ever faced with something similar to what you have experienced in your family. We are happy to hear Essentials of Asthma was helpful in your quest for learning.

Robin Wilson said...

My son, now 24, was diagnosed with "daily asthma" when he was only 3 months old. It was terrible, neb. treatments 3 times a day and when he was older an inhaler. My advise, get rid of as much textile in your home as possible. Stuffed animals, pillows, etc. all hold so much dust! I vac and dust every day. You might also consider purchasing a stand alone room filter for his room and/or living area. I wish little Liam all the best!

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