For which situation should a child with asthma be closely monitored?

Monitoring a child with asthma during physical activity is essential due to the potential for exercise-induced bronchoconstriction, a phenomenon where the airways narrow during or after exercise, leading to difficulty breathing. Physical activity can trigger asthma symptoms in many children, particularly if they are not properly managed or if they are exposed to certain environmental factors, such as cold air or allergens.

During exercise, the increased respiratory rate and depth can lead to decreased humidification of the air entering the lungs, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Therefore, close monitoring during physical activities ensures that any signs of wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath are promptly addressed, allowing for timely intervention and the overall safety of the child.

While daily medications and sleeping are also important aspects of managing asthma, they do not present the immediate potential for acute symptoms that physical activity can. Being symptom-free is a positive sign, but it still requires regular monitoring to ensure that triggers and exacerbations are effectively managed, particularly during more strenuous activities.