Buteyko Manual For Asthma Continued.

Page 70

A general guide is that if while calm the pulse is 20 beats or more above the top of the usual range for children, and does not at any time drop closer to usual range, then steroids are needed. Range of pulse depends on age to some degree, with the top of the range for resting pulse usually being around 90. [Discuss this with your physician.]

As a general rule, if your childs pulse is always over 100, then consider steroids. Be aware that most medication will also increase pulse, as will most food, especially sugar, so account for this when observing pulse.

Steps are best done in series of about 4 to 5. That is, repeat the process 4 to 5 times. At the start of training this should be done 3 times per day.

If the pulse is constantly above 120 [for more than a day], you can be sure that something is about to happen. The pulse will generally rise before other symptoms such as asthma or an infection appear.