Recheck asthma as school starts

More than 6 million children in the United States suffer from asthma, according to the American Lung Association. If you're the parent of one of them, you'll want to be aware of this:

Schedule a check-up with your doctor to ensure your child's asthma is being effectively controlled. Use this opportunity to talk about medication options and physical activity restrictions.

Give an action plan to teachers, coaches and school health personnel that details your child's symptoms, medications, activity limitations and instructions on what to do in the event of an attack. You can download a blank action plan form at the ALA's website (www.lungusa.org).

WASHINGTON POST

Treating plant rashes Poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac contain the resin urushiol in their leaves, which can cause an itchy, irritating rash. If your kids spend a lot of time outdoors, make sure they know what the plants look like so they can avoid them. If that proves futile, here's what you can do to treat exposed areas:

• Within 10 minutes of exposure, you might be able to stave off a rash by wiping the affected area with rubbing alcohol. Wash with water only at first. Then shower with soap and warm water. Scrub your kids' nails and wipe off their shoes to avoid further spreading of the urushiol.

• To treat an all-out rash, try calamine lotion or oatmeal baths. Antihistamines might also relieve some of the itching. The rash should clear in one to three weeks, but if it gets worse, see your doctor.

WASHINGTON POST

BPA-free lunch boxes To cut down on wasted bags and wrappers, try the fun BPA-free Laptop Lunch Box (www.laptoplunches.com), a bento boxlike case with interchangeable containers that hold hot, cold, dry and wet food and practically compel you to fill them with healthful snacks for your kids. They fit right into padded, insulated lunchboxes.

CHICAGO TRIBUNE