5 Ways to Protect Your Child from Asthma

The occasional sneezing, coughing and wheezing is something we all see in children as they are growing up. The worry starts when it gets frequent. That’s when you need to consult a specialist and check whether your child has any symptoms of allergy or Asthma.

ASTHMA CHOKES THE ENTIRE FAMILY

If your child is affected by Asthma, it affects the entire family as the parents have to keep a close watch on what the child eats, drinks and especially breathes in.

SO, WHAT EXACTLY HAPPENS DURING AN ASTHMA ATTACK?

An attack is triggered when the outflow of air from the lungs is restricted by an obstruction, which narrows or contracts the airways. This leads to muscle constriction and swelling of the lining along the airways of the lungs.

IS IT A CAUSE FOR CONCERN IN INDIA?

Yes, according to a WHO report:

• India has an estimated 15-20 million asthmatics
• What’s more worrying? In India, Asthma affects roughly 10% to 15% of children between 5-11 years old

Plus, certain environmental and climatic factors in India like pollution and weather conditions can trigger asthma attacks.

SO, WHAT CAN YOU DO TO PREVENT IT?

A few simple yet effective steps can go a long way in preventing Asthma for your kids. Here are quick and easy tips, which you can follow from today. In fact, right now.

DON’T LET THE DUST OR DUST MITES GATHER AT YOUR PLACE

Dust mites are microscopicbugs that feed on your skin particles. Very often their breeding ground is our bed, carpets, clothes and upholstery. Running a steam iron over these objects or even washing fabrics regularly can prevent them from spreading. They can trigger Asthma attacks at home.

PASSIVE SMOKING CAN LEAD TO ACTIVE ASTHMA ATTACKS

Smoking can be detrimental not just for you but your kids. Cigarette smoke and toxins are major Asthma triggers for kids. Stub the smoking habit at home or while the kids are around.

KEEP THOSE PETS AWAY

There’s no doubt that most kids love pets but it’s not a very good idea to get a pet home if your child has symptoms of allergies and asthma. According to a KidsHealth report, nearly 30% of asthmatic patients are allergic to animals. Do you think it’s the fur? No, actually it is their dead skin matter, saliva and urine that trigger asthma.

KEEP THAT AIR AT HOME PURE

If you thought the outdoor air pollution is injurious to your health, think again. According to a report, air pollution indoors can be two to five times worse than outdoor air quality. Some of the common pollutants are pollen, harmful chemical fumes, mould and carbon monoxide. These are all potential triggers for asthma attacks. If possible, buy an air purifier as it can help keep indoor air quality levels at your home.

CHILD OBESITY INCREASE CHANCES OF ASTHMA

Health experts have found a direct link between child obesity and increased asthma attacks. One of the major reasons for this is the inflammation of the lungs due to increased body weight, which directly affects the airways and breathing patterns of the child. That’s why it is important to keep your child physically active, to help keep asthma in check. Also, be careful when it comes to your child’s diet as certain foods have been known to trigger asthma. These include peanuts, cow’s milk, soybean and seafood to name some.

PUT THAT STRESS TO REST

Stress is perhaps the biggest asthma trigger. It causes hormones like adrenaline and cortisol to fluctuate, which affects our heartbeat and breathing patterns. An increased heartbeat speeds up your breathing, which can choke your airways. Therefore, make sure your child is stress-free especially during exams.