Asthma in Children: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Cases of asthma and rhinitis have doubled in the last thirty years, and in general all respiratory disorders have increased since 1985. This was revealed by research by the Institute of Clinical Physiology of the National Research Council in Pisa. Blame it on thepollution, of course, but also bad lifestyles that especially affect the children. And also of genetic causes.

In particular, asthma is one of the most common diseases during childhood, it is estimated that in One in ten children in Italy suffers from asthma. A chronic disease very widespread especially among the little ones, which affects the quality of life and which in most cases manifests its symptoms during the first 4 years of the child's lifeAnother statistic, reported by the Bambin Gesù Hospital in Rome: bronchial asthma in Italy is very common among preschool children, and in this case the percentage of children suffering from it rises to 40-50 percent.

Asthma is characterized by a temporary narrowing of the airways that makes breathing difficult, caused mainly by contraction of the bronchial muscles, inflammation and swelling of the bronchial mucosa, and increased mucus secretion.

Cause

Asthma can be allergic or infectious in nature.While in the first case the allergens can be dust, pollen, animal hair, or certain foods; in the latter case, asthma can be triggered by viruses that attack the airways. In some cases, certain medications, cold temperatures, or physical exertion can also trigger the onset of asthma.

Symptoms

Wheezing, cough Typically dry throat, chest tightness, and a feeling of suffocation: these are the main symptoms of asthma. In more severe cases, people with asthma also experience difficulty speaking and carrying out normal daily activities.

Some children may exhibit breathing difficulties Due to an episode of bronchiolitis: in this case, asthma tends to recur with viral infections and generally disappears around the age of 10-13. If asthma is caused by allergens present in the home, such as dust or animal dander, children may continue to suffer from this condition into adulthood. Another cause of asthmatic allergic reactions can be an allergic reaction to dust, mold, pollen, or certain animal dander. Or it can be caused by certain infections, especially viral ones, and especially by children smaller ones.

How to recognize an asthma attack

An asthma attack, especially an acute one, is usually preceded by an increase in the frequency and intensity of coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, hunched shoulders, and wheezing. The child usually appears nervous and restless. Most children who experience asthma attacks may experience shortness of breath or cough during physical activity. This is exercise-induced asthma.

Diagnosis

The first step in diagnosing a child's asthma is always a pediatrician. He or she will provide initial guidance, including the possible administration of medications that dilate the bronchi. Then there are more specific tests, starting with spirometry, which measures the amount of air the child can exhale with a strong breath. This test generally cannot be performed before the age of 5 or 6. Finally, allergy tests: these are used to determine if the child has an allergy, which then translates into asthma, to a specific material, or, more rarely, to a specific food. Once the diagnosis has been established and treatment has begun, even after good results, it is always advisable for parents to schedule follow-up appointments with their pediatrician.

Cures and treatments

•  Inhaled corticosteroids: They help reduce inflammation of the airways. They are taken daily, even when the child has no symptoms, to prevent asthma attacks.
• Long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs): in some cases, combined with corticosteroids, to keep the airways open.
• Antileukotrienes: reduce inflammation and narrowing of the airways

• Short-acting bronchodilators (such as albuterol): These medications work quickly to relax the muscles in your airways and relieve symptoms during an acute attack.

Consequences for children's lives

Asthma is unfortunately a pathology that can significantly affect the lives of children and cause them to miss many days of school due to the onset of symptoms. Furthermore, children with asthma may have difficulty running, sometimes unable to participate in recreational activities with their peers due to their symptoms, and may experience sleep disturbances.

However, these limitations must not create difficulties in children's relationships with their peers: it is important to help asthmatic children maintain a sense of security and self-confidence. It is essential for parents to discuss the issue with their child's teachers so they know how to intervene in the event of sudden asthma attacks and, above all, to show understanding in the event of frequent absences, fatigue, or nervousness due to nighttime asthma attacks.

It is important to remember that the disease and its symptoms vary greatly from one child to another and the same pathology can manifest itself differently during different stages of growth.

Natural remedies

Even though it is a chronic disease, it is possible to keep the symptoms under control and not deprive children of various moments of socialization and recreation. Let's see what natural remedies there are to keep asthma under control in children.:

• Children with asthma are often discouraged from engaging in much exercise for fear that physical activity could trigger an attack. In reality, a sedentary lifestyle is just as dangerous as a poor diet or exposure to smoke, even secondhand smoke. So, yes to children's favorite sport: in high-risk cases, asthma can be prevented by giving children a short-acting bronchodilator before training. This will prevent their bronchial tubes from narrowing due to exertion and physical activity.

• Among the most suitable sports for children suffering from asthma are: ARTISTIC and team games that can be practiced without excessive effort and that include some breaks. Swimming also improves children's breathing, physical endurance, and posture.

• It is better to avoid running, however, as it is particularly demanding for the child.

• Some studies have also shown that mountains are an excellent natural cure-all for children suffering from asthma. The presence of clean air can help little ones keep asthma attacks under control. Therefore, if possible, especially during the summer, consider a walk in the fresh air.

• If you're planning a hike in the countryside, make sure your child takes the necessary medication to protect against a possible allergic reaction starting in the morning. During the hike, walk slowly and avoid steep and strenuous climbs, which could trigger exercise-induced asthma in your child.

• Do not leave your child in environments where the air is polluted or there is smoke. cigarettes.

• Also be careful of paints, glues, dust, and fumes that can be released during chemistry or physics lessons at school: they can worsen asthma or trigger an attack.

• During the winter, avoid exposing your child to cold and wind and dress him in layers to prevent him from sweating and causing possible respiratory problems.

• Use anti-mite fabrics, especially in the case of mattresses and cushions.
• It is essential to learn how to use aerosols correctly: often, especially in very young children, failure to control asthma can be due to errors in the administration of inhaled medications.
• In the event of an asthma attack, stay calm so as not to frighten your child. Never leave him alone. Position him in a position that facilitates breathing. Administer any medications prescribed by your doctor. If your child shows no improvement within 10 minutes, contact your doctor immediately or take him to the nearest hospital.
• Finally, remember that since this is a chronic disease, it is essential to have your child checked periodically by your pediatrician to evaluate any changes in treatment.

The mountains and the sea to cure asthma

Foods for children's asthma

• Avocado. Especially when the asthma has an allergic origin.
• BroccoliThey are considered among the best protectors to avoid inflammation of the bronchi.
• BananaThey contain vitamin B6 which relaxes the muscle tissue of the bronchi.
• MeleThey are considered natural anti-asthmatics.
• ZENZEROA powerful anti-inflammatory.
• Oranges and citrus fruitsVitamin C is capable of clearing the bronchi.
• SpinaciThey have been shown to improve respiratory function.