Which condition is included under Other Health Impairments (OHI)?

The inclusion of asthma under Other Health Impairments (OHI) is grounded in its potential to significantly impact a child's educational performance and daily activities. OHI is a category under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that encompasses a variety of health-related issues which may limit a child's strength, vitality, or alertness. Asthma fits this description as it can interfere with a student’s ability to participate fully in school activities due to symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing.

In contrast, while chronic fatigue syndrome can also affect a student’s health and school performance, it is often categorized separately and may not always meet the criteria for OHI in practical applications. Lactose intolerance, although a health issue, typically does not impede educational performance in the same way that asthma does, and visual impairment falls under a different category related to sensory disabilities rather than health impairments. Thus, asthma is broadly recognized within OHI as it aligns closely with the definition and intent of the category focused on health conditions that notably affect academic engagement.