If your child has asthma, you are not alone. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 5 million children in the United States currently have asthma. While there is no single cause of asthma, certain risk factors can make a child more likely to develop the condition. Keep reading to learn about five of these risk factors.
Allergies
If your child has allergies, they may be more likely to develop asthma. In fact, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, about 60% of children with asthma also have allergies. Common allergens triggering asthma symptoms include dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mold. It’s also important to know that food can cause allergies. Children’s most common food allergies are milk, eggs, and peanuts.
Respiratory Infections
If your child frequently gets respiratory infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia, they may be more likely to develop asthma. These infections can damage the airways and make them more sensitive to allergens or cold air triggers. Here are the three most common respiratory illnesses among children:
Bronchitis
The most common respiratory infection among children, bronchitis, is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the lungs. It usually affects children exposed to secondhand smoke or frequent upper respiratory infections.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Children with asthma need to vaccinate against pneumonia, as it can worsen their symptoms and lead to asthma attacks.
Influenza (the flu)
Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the flu virus. In children with asthma, the flu can worsen their symptoms and lead to an asthma attack. Therefore, it’s essential for all children six months or older to get a yearly flu shot.
Smoking
If you or anyone else in your household smokes cigarettes, your child is at an increased risk of developing asthma. This is because cigarette smoke contains irritants and toxins that can damage the lungs and make breathing difficult.
Air pollution
Air pollution from cars, factories, and power plants can also contribute to childhood asthma. These pollutants can irritate the lungs and make breathing difficult.
Family History
If someone in your family has asthma, your child may also be more likely to develop the condition. This is because some people are born with a genetic predisposition to asthma.
If your child has been diagnosed with asthma, there are several ways to reduce an asthma attack at home. The first thing you need to know is the signs of asthma. These include:
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing, especially at night or during exercise
- Tightening in the chest
- Wheezing when exhaling
Once you know these signs, it’s essential to have an asthma action plan in place. This plan includes triggers to avoid and steps to take during an asthma attack. It also provides information on what medication your child should take and when they should see a doctor. Preventative measures should also be taken if your child is less asthmatic. Here are five tips for preventing asthma attacks at home.
Clean and Declutter
The simplest way to prevent asthma attacks is by keeping your home clean and free of allergens. Here are three tips for keeping your home clean and away from asthma.
Declutter
Clutter will lead to dust, and dust can lead to asthma attacks. So it’s essential to regularly clean up and declutter your living space, especially in the child’s bedroom.
Control indoor mold growth
Mold can trigger asthma attacks, so it’s essential to control any potential areas for mold growth, such as bathrooms or kitchens. This includes fixing water leaks and ensuring proper mold control inside your home.
Clean Windows
Your windows are an entranceway for pollen, dust, and other allergens. So keeping them clean all the time should be a priority. Hiring a window cleaning service to clean your windows every three months can make a difference. These professionals know how to clean windows properly and remove potential allergens. They can also ensure no dust build-up on your curtains and blinds.
Avoid Smoke
Taking steps to avoid secondhand smoke can also prevent asthma attacks. This means not smoking inside the home or near your child and avoiding places where there is smoke present, such as bars or parties.
Eliminate Pests
Pests, such as cockroaches, mice, and dust mites, can trigger asthma attacks in children. Therefore, eliminating them from your home is crucial for preventing asthma attacks. This includes sealing any possible entry points for pests and regular cleaning to remove pest droppings.
Asthma is a common chronic condition in children, but taking preventative measures can reduce the likelihood of asthma attacks. Taking these precautions can create a safe and healthy environment for your child to thrive.
