Treatment: What are we going to do?
The first appointment
The first time we speak to each other, we will ask you and your mother and father a lot of questions. You have probably already filled out a form together. In addition to the questions about what exactly is wrong with you and whether you are already taking medication, we would also like to know what is important to you.
To ask
When you come to us, we will ask you a few more questions, even if you have filled out a questionnaire in advance, because we would like to get to know you. You and your parents know what is important to you and we know a lot about asthma and lungs, so we will talk about that. Of course, you can also ask us any questions you have.
Lungs, asthma and medicines
You come to us because something is wrong with your lungs. We will investigate what is wrong and how we can best help you.
It may be better for you to use medication. Often these are puffs, but sometimes also a nasal spray or (chewable or melting) tablets. We will discuss together why this is and what suits you best. In addition, we find it important that you can do everything as much as possible without any discomfort. Ultimately, we would prefer that you have as few complaints as possible with as few medications as possible.
Listening to your lungs
Every time you come, we would like to listen to your lungs. We do this with a stethoscope. You have probably heard of it. It does not hurt. We often ask you to take off your shirt, dress, shirt or sweater.
Lung function
We start this when you are about 6 years old, because it is quite difficult. Sometimes it works even when you are a bit younger. We have a device that you have to blow into and that is connected to the computer. That means that you can see on the computer what you have to do, for example inhale, blow out candles or clean an elephant.
Injections / blood test
Very occasionally we will discuss with you and your parents or carers that it is necessary to have an injection. We do not do this quickly and certainly not always, because we know that it hurts. And we do not like having to hurt you. If that is necessary, we will discuss it with each other and agree on a time when that will happen. You can have an injection at our health centre at the SCAL if you want.
Useful to know: identify yourself and take it with you
The first time you come to us, and then once a year, you must ‘identify’ yourself. This means that you can show someone else that you are really you. You do this with an ID. Hospitals and health centres are required to ask you to do this again once a year. Even if we already know you well.
Valid identification documents are:
- a valid passport
- a valid driver’s license
- a valid identity card (ID card)
- a (Dutch) alien document
See also the website of the Dutch government.
If you are already taking medication, it is always useful to take it with you. You can also ask your pharmacist for a list of the medication you are taking or have taken, but we prefer that you just take what you have at home.
Curious? Questions? Feel free to contact us.
