I can’t imagine having any type of chronic breathing disorder at any age, let alone in childhood. It baffles me that some children have to fight just to breathe. This is the case for about 6.5 million children (under the age of 18) in the U.S. who struggle with asthma. The age group most affected is between the ages of 5-17. Asthma is the third leading cause for hospitalization in children, and school absenteeism. Asthma can almost always be controlled even though there isn’t a cure. The key is education for you and your child.

Causes

Allergens, viral respiratory infections and airborne irritants cause an inflammation of the airways which is the common denominator in asthma patients. The inflammation is almost always causative of the asthma condition.

Asthma is often triggered by a condition or an outside stimulus that activates an over-reactive airway system.
Some common triggers are:
• Exercise
• Infections
• Allergy
• Irritants
• Weather
• Emotions such as crying (infrequent)

Signs and Symptoms

• Constant or intermittent coughing
• Wheezing or whistling sounds when exhaling
• Shortness of breath or rapid breathing

Children who have frequent respiratory infections, pneumonia and bronchitis should be evaluated for asthma. If the child coughs after running or crying, has recurring or worsening cough at night, tightening of the chest with shortness of breath and is complaining that their chest hurts or feels funny, they should be tested for asthma.

Prevention

Asthma is treatable and reversible. The most important thing is to help your child avoid irritants.

Some things to avoid:
• Harsh chemicals like those found in some cleaners
• Cigarette or cigar smoke
• Allergens such as pet dander or ragweed
• High humidity rates (A dehumidifier will help within the home. There’s not much you can do about Mother Nature.)
• People infected with a viral, bacterial or respiratory infection
• Over extending the child emotionally or physically which will bring on stress

Home Remedies

Some specialized items can be used to help your child breathe easier:
• Allergen-impermeable covers for pillows and mattresses
• Vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA filter)
• Air cleaner with a HEPA filter for homes with pets or mold problems (avoid smoking in the home even with a filter)
• Vent filters for homes with forced air heat

Things you can do to help your child while he/she is having an asthma attack:
• Stay calm—the calmer you are, the calmer your child will be. A panic attack will make it even more difficult for the child to catch his/her breath.
• Teach breathing from the diaphragm, the muscle in the stomach. The breaths aren’t as shallow that way, and more air is able to get into the stomach.

When to See a Doctor

Asthma is a chronic illness, but can usually be managed successfully at home. However, it can be life threatening. If your child is displaying any of the following symptoms, consult with a physician immediately.
• Struggling to get air. The nostrils may be flared, or your child may have a pinched-in look at the ribs or collarbone.
• Too busy trying to breathe rather than talk.
• Sitting up and leaning forward in an effort to get air.
• Grunting with each breath.
• Sitting very quietly and attempting to get his breath (won’t get up and walk around).
• Refusing to eat or drink.
• Not feeling better within 15 minutes after medication is given.

-Anne

Do you have any home remedies for Childhood Asthma? Comment and share them with us!

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