World Asthma Day 2024: Here's how to prevent asthma in children

World Asthma Day 2024: A diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help lower a child's risk of developing asthma by giving them vital nutrients and antioxidants that support healthy respiratory systems (Image: Canva)

Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease marked by airway restriction and inflammation, is one of the biggest health issues that children are currently facing globally. Asthma is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases in children, affecting their quality of life and putting a significant strain on families, healthcare systems, and other organisations. Its prevalence is on the rise hence It is crucial to understand the distinct ways that children's asthma appears as well as the elements that lead to its onset and worsening in order to facilitate early identification, efficient treatment, and better results.

How to avoid asthma in children

Environmental control:

The environment plays a major impact on what causes asthma attacks and symptoms, says Dr Pratibha Dogra, Senior Consultant - Pulmonology, Marengo Asia Hospital, Gurugram. "Parents should take proactive measures to further improve environmental control in addition to reducing exposure to known asthma triggers such tobacco smoke, indoor allergens, outdoor air pollution, and respiratory illnesses," she adds.

This means reducing exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are present in paints, air fresheners, and household cleaning supplies. It also entails putting humidity control and mold and mildew prevention measures into place, says Dr Dogra.

Promoting healthy eating and lifestyle habits:

Dogra suggests encouragement of a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help lower a child's risk of developing asthma by giving them vital nutrients and antioxidants that support healthy respiratory systems.

Including foods strong in omega-3 fatty acids, such nuts, and fish, may also have anti-inflammatory properties that could help reduce the inflammation of the airways linked to asthma. Promoting healthy lifestyle habits in children at a young age can improve their respiratory health and lower their chance of getting asthma. Parenting activities like breathing exercises, yoga, and mindfulness practices can help parents support respiratory health in addition to regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and enough sleep. These exercises help youngsters build coping skills for handling stress and anxiety, which can aggravate asthma symptoms, in addition to supporting lung function.

Early intervention and timely diagnosis:

For children and teenagers with asthma, early diagnosis and treatment of symptoms is essential to stopping the disease's progression and reducing its effects. To avoid exacerbations and problems, parents, caregivers, and doctors should be attentive for early warning signs of asthma, such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath, and seek urgent medical attention and treatment.

Avoiding allergens:

Minimising exposure to common allergens can be a major factor in preventing Asthma in children, as there is a clear correlation between the development of asthma and allergic sensitisation. This involves taking preventative steps against allergens, such as using pillow and mattress protectors that are allergen-proof, washing bedding in hot water once a week, and routinely vacuuming carpets and upholstered furniture. Additionally, for those who are sensitive to outdoor allergens like pollen, keeping windows closed during peak pollen seasons will help lessen symptoms of asthma.

Immunisation:

Reducing the risk of respiratory infections that can lead to asthma exacerbations can be achieved by making sure kids obtain the required immunizations, which include the yearly influenza vaccine and routine childhood vaccinations, says Dogra. Immunisations not only defend against certain pathogens but also strengthen the immune system, lowering the risk of respiratory diseases that might exacerbate asthma.