Facts on Childhood Asthma

Photo Credit: Phaitoon

Asthma is a condition that affects the airways of the lungs. The airways become extra sensitive to certain triggers, like infections, cigarette smoke and dust. The airways then become narrowed, making it difficult for the sufferer to breathe properly.

Childhood asthma is common and is usually diagnosed when the child is around 3-years-old. In many cases, the child will grow out of the condition before reaching adulthood. If your child is diagnosed with asthma, your doctor will prescribe medication to help prevent the attacks and help relieve symptoms should an attack occur. It is very important your child has these available at all times, so make sure he has supplies for school, nursery or any other carer.

Minimizing triggers can help so keep your house as dust-free as possible. Your child’s bed should also be free of toys, especially stuffed animals and other cuddly toys. You should wash your child’s bedding regularly, as this will get rid of dust mites. These are commonplace in bedding and not just restricted to dirty or unwashed bedding. Most importantly, you should enforce a no smoking policy in your home. Cigarette smoke is a major irritant and will only increase your child’s chances of having an asthma attack. Passive smoking means there are also other serious health implications if you or anyone else smokes around your child.