Asthma causes the airways in the lungs to narrow, making it difficult to breathe. This narrowing
of the airways may last several minutes or hours, depending on the severity an asthma attack.
Helping ease asthma in children is important to protect their health and well-being.
Children suffering from asthma may experience slight wheezing, which may escalate to gasping
for air as airways continue to narrow. This is caused by muscles surrounding airways that are
reacting to increased dust, pollen, pet dander, insect debris, second-hand smoke and other
harmful pollutants and allergens in the air. Asthma in children can lead to life-long breathing and
other health problems.
Health Risks and Symptoms of Asthma
For reasons unknown, asthma is on the rise among children. While there are many environmental
factors that trigger an asthma attack (exposure to extreme hot or cold temperatures, allergic
reactions to medication or allergens in the air), family history can also play a role. Some studies
have shown that male children (especially those born with low birth weight) may be more
susceptible than other children to asthma attacks.
Symptoms of asthma in children include sudden wheezing, shortness of breath, tightness or pain
in the chest, sudden fatigue, loss of appetite, rapid breathing, and tightness of muscles throughout
the body.
You should never ignore these symptoms. Contact your child’s physician immediately to
determine the best course of action. If the attack continues for a prolonged period of time (more
than one hour) or becomes worse, go to the emergency room.
Preventing Asthma Attacks
While you can’t protect your children every second of every day from pollutants, allergens and
other asthma triggers, there are ways to reduce pollutants and allergens in your home.
The following asthma guidelines can help you manage asthma attacks and provide a safer place
for your children to live and breathe:
- Reduce allergens from entering your home by keeping windows closed during seasons
when pollen count is the highest (in most regions, early spring and fall). - Avoid smoking indoors
- Vacuum carpets and furniture a few times a week to remove pet dander, dust mites and
other debris. - Acquire an air purifier to remove harmful pollutants and allergens including volatile
organic chemicals (VOCs), bacteria, and viruses from the air. - Visit your children’s physician to determine if medication will help reduce or prevent
future asthma attacks.
Air Purifier
Investing in a quality air purifier will reduce allergens, pollutants, and harmful
chemicals from entering your child’s lungs. Select an air purifier that relies on cHEPA/HEPAfast
filtration, has the highest Clean Air Delivery Rates.
An air purifier is easy to use and control, made of sturdy, durable materials and is
energy efficient. By recognizing and understanding the symptoms and risk factors associated with
childhood asthma, you can start protecting your family today and alleviate asthma in children.