According to the American Lung Association, at least 5.5 million children suffer from asthma in the U.S. This chronic lung disease is the number one reason for pediatric hospitalizations and school absenteeism. However, with the right management and treatment program in place, parents can help improve the quality of life of their child, and gain control over their kid’s symptoms.
What is Asthma?
Asthma in childhood can be a scary event for a child. During an attack, spasms in the muscles surrounding the lungs are referred to as bronchial constriction. This action obstructs the airflow, resulting in difficulty in breathing. Some symptoms could include coughing, wheezing, and a sense of tightness in the chest. The attack can last from a few minutes to many hours.
Getting Relief
Relief for childhood asthma is an ongoing endeavor. That is why it is crucial to work with healthcare professionals to provide various strategies to help reduce the risk of flare-ups in your child. These recommendations could include –
* Inhaled Corticosteroids: Highly effective, Corticosteroids are often used with an inhaler, resulting in direct delivery to the lungs. This method aids in reducing mucus production, reduces inflammation, and makes the lung’s air passageways less sensitive to allergens.
Also, there are oral Corticosteroids that come in liquid or pill form. They are basically used for short-term treatment.
*Theophylline: Commonly used for asthma, this medication reacts with the cells in the lungs. Theophylline reduces constriction of the air passageway of the lungs, which leads to an increase in oxygen exchange. This treatment can be given orally or through intravenous administration.
*Biologics: If a child has severe asthma, your healthcare provider could suggest and prescribe Biologics medication. This drug is delivered through injections. Unlike Corticosteroids, Biologics seek out the cells and proteins that cause compression and inflammation of the airway passages.
Preventative Measures for Asthma
There are many allergens that can be a catalyst for asthma, including dust mites, animal dander, environmental pollutants, food additives, and stress. By working in partnership, parents and healthcare providers can create a supportive environment for children with asthma.
Measures parents can take include –
Firstly, it is crucial to ensure that the child’s environment is clean and free from allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. Regularly vacuuming carpets and upholstery, washing bedding in hot water, and using hypoallergenic covers for pillows and mattresses can help minimize exposure to these triggers.
Secondly, parents should be cautious about indoor air quality. It is recommended to avoid smoking inside the house as secondhand smoke can significantly increase the risk of developing asthma. Additionally, keeping the house well-ventilated and using air purifiers or filters can help remove pollutants from the air.
Thirdly, maintaining good hygiene practices is essential. Encouraging regular handwashing with soap and water can reduce the chances of respiratory infections that may trigger asthma symptoms. Teaching children to cover their mouths and noses while coughing or sneezing can also help prevent respiratory illnesses.
Furthermore, diet plays a role in managing asthma. Parents should aim to provide a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to strengthen the child’s immune system. Some studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids found in fish may have a protective effect against asthma development.
Regular physical activity is also beneficial for preventing asthma. Encouraging children to engage in age-appropriate exercises and sports not only improves overall health but also strengthens their lungs.
Lastly, it is essential for parents to work closely with healthcare professionals to develop an asthma management plan specific to their child’s needs. This plan may include regular check-ups, keeping a diary to track the frequency of your child’s flare-ups, appropriate medications if necessary, understanding early warning signs of an asthma attack, and knowing how to respond in emergency situations.
Reach Out
If your child has asthma, Advocare Haddon Pediatrics can provide the specialized care and support they need. Our experienced team of pediatricians, including some of the best pediatricians in Phoenix, understands the unique challenges that come with managing asthma in children, and we are dedicated to helping your child live a healthy and active life. With our expertise and personalized approach, we create customized treatment plans that cater to each child’s specific needs.
Do not wait another day to seek help for your child’s asthma. Contact Advocare Haddon Pediatrics today for more information on how we can assist you in providing comprehensive care for your little one. Together, let us help your child breathe easier, so they can thrive to their fullest potential. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (856) 294-5600 for our Mullica Hill office. You can also reach us at (856) 547-7300 for our Haddon Heights facility.
Overall, it is important for parents to be proactive in seeking medical advice, regularly monitoring their child’s condition, and ensuring they adhere to prescribed treatments. With the right support system and a strong partnership between parents and healthcare workers, children with asthma can lead happy and fulfilling lives.
