An asthma attack can be a frightening experience for both you and your child. Reduce the anxiety by thinking ahead and creating an asthma action plan.

Work with your child's doctor to write an asthma action plan, including step-by-step instructions for preventing and handling asthma attacks.

"Planning is the key to overcoming panic," says James Li, M.D., an asthma and allergy specialist at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. "A written plan can give you and your child the confidence to treat asthma signs and symptoms promptly."

Every child's asthma action plan is unique. Your child's plan can help you:

• Manage your child's medications. List your child's asthma medications and when to take them — including daily control medications and as-needed rescue medications. Make sure you know what medications you have on hand, where they are and how to use them.
• Take action based on symptoms and peak flow readings. A peak flow meter can help you monitor how well your child's lungs are working from day to day. If your child's peak flow rate drops, use the action plan to adjust his or her medication.
• Recognize an asthma attack. When you're on the lookout for warning signs — such as coughing, wheezing or shortness of breath — you can take prompt action at the first sign of an attack. Follow the action plan's instructions for using quick-relief medications and other drugs meant for more serious attacks.
• Know when to seek emergency care. Some attacks can't be managed at home. Use the action plan to recognize the signs of rapidly worsening asthma, such as lips and nails turning blue or difficulty speaking.
• Organize contact information. List the doctor's phone number, emergency phone numbers and the location of the nearest emergency room.

The asthma action plan that follows is a sample intended for children ages 5 and older. Print the plan and take it to your child's next appointment. Ask the doctor to help you personalize the plan for your child. If your child is younger than 5, ask how to adjust the plan for your child's needs.

Sample Asthma Action Plan for Children Ages 5 and Older (PDF file requiring Adobe Reader).

Keep your child's asthma action plan handy. Make sure your child and everyone who cares for him or her — including grandparents and baby sitters — know where to find it. Give a copy of the plan to the school nurse and your child's teachers and coaches. Keep another copy in your wallet or purse, in case an asthma attack occurs away from home.

Even with the best action plan, you may still have questions about handling an asthma attack. If in doubt — or if you're simply concerned about your child's signs and symptoms — call your child's doctor. Acting early can help prevent a serious attack.