Asthmatic Children, Parents Face Added Challenges

Parents of young children can face considerable pressure when shopping around for an affordable health insurance policy. However, those pressures become even more pronounced when the children happen to have asthma.

This week, the American Lung Association called attention to the challenges that asthmatic children can face. The organization noted that about 7 million children under age 18 suffer from asthma, amounting to about 14 million lost school days per year.

"Common asthma triggers include respiratory infections, allergic reactions to pollen, mold, animal dander, cigarette smoke, dust and foods, and exercise. It's important that parents manage their child's asthma as a team effort, involving their child, the child's healthcare providers, and the school," said Dr. Norman Edelman, chief medical officer of the American Lung Association.

Edelman also reminded parents that with the school year rapidly approaching, it's also time to start thinking about flu vaccinations for their children. Children with asthma are among those who are particularly likely to benefit from vaccinations, added the ALA.

Regardless of a child's overall medical condition, health insurance is a crucial protection for families and individuals everywhere.