Asthma is a long-term respiratory disease that causes inflammation and constriction of the lungs’ airways. The airways become extremely sensitive as a result of this inflammation, which causes recurrent episodes of coughing (particularly at night or in the early morning), chest tightness, shortness of breath, and wheezing (a whistling sound made during breathing).
Asthma in Children
Although asthma can strike at any age, it usually first manifests in childhood, when your child’s immune system is still maturing. By the age of five, the majority of kids with asthma experience their first symptoms. Your youngster may miss school or perhaps wind up in the hospital due to asthma.
Having a treatment plan for your child’s asthma is crucial for managing their condition. There has been a marked increase in the prevalence of asthma in Southern Asia (including India) reported over the last two decades, with up to a threefold increase in children.
Prevalence of Childhood Asthma in India
Research studies conducted to estimate the prevalence of asthma among children in India have reported a varied but alarming prevalence (2–18%). The prevalence was higher among boys and in urban areas. Childhood asthma among children 13 – 14 years of age was lower than the younger children (6 – 7 years of age).
Significant risk factors for childhood asthma were identified as children living in metropolitan areas, being wet, having pets, having a lower socioeconomic position, having a family history of atopy or allergies, and smoking or passive smoking.
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Causes of Childhood Asthma
A number of variables, including genetics, early virus infections, environmental exposures to allergens (such as dust mites and pollen), and triggers like cold air or tobacco smoke, can contribute to childhood asthma. These variables contribute to the airway sensitivity and inflammation that define childhood asthma, while the precise cause is not entirely understood.
Impact of Childhood Asthma
More than only health, childhood asthma affects learning and social life by interfering with sleep, limiting activities, and causing school absences. Families experience mental distress and financial hardship as a result of the rise in doctor visits and hospital stays, as well as the loss of parental workdays and medical expenses.
Research has indicated that children with asthma, especially those with severe asthma, are more likely than children in the general population to experience psychological adaptation issues. This has been attributed to dysfunctional family interactional patterns, greater demands on the family, and the detrimental developmental effects of having a chronic health condition.
In addition to impairing lung function in people who receive insufficient treatment, asthma can also lower a person’s quality of life.
Complications of Childhood Asthma
Childhood asthma can cause major problems if left untreated, such as potentially fatal asthma episodes, diminished lung function, and potential growth delays from long-term pharmaceutical use. It can also impair a child’s general development and quality of life by interfering with sleep, making them tired, and limiting their access to everyday activities like sports and play.
Read Also: Is Asthma a Communicable Disease?
Conclusion
The prevalence of asthma in children is not only increasing at an alarming rate globally, but also in India. Childhood asthma has several negative consequences on the child’s health as well as his/her development and quality of life. Treatment, management and avoidance of risk factors are imperative to reduce the impact of childhood asthma.
Frequently Asked Questions
In India, childhood asthma is rather prevalent. Depending on the location, the rates can vary from 2% to more than 18%. It is more prevalent in cities and among boys than in rural areas.
Increased air pollution, dietary changes that lead to poorer health and less physical activity, increased exposure to allergens, urbanization, and improved knowledge and diagnosis have all contributed to the rise in childhood asthma rates in India.
The child’s age, symptoms, and asthma severity all influence how their asthma is treated. In order to lower inflammation and stop symptoms, it contains long-term control medications such as combination inhalers, leukotriene modifiers, and inhaled corticosteroids.
Asthma episodes are treated with quick-relief medications, such as bronchodilators like albuterol. If asthma is caused by allergies, allergy therapies such as immunotherapy or antihistamines can assist. While older children utilize inhalers, infants may require nebulizers.
Avoiding and recognizing triggers is also crucial. In severe cases, specialists like pulmonologists or allergists may be involved in the care plan.
Avoid smoking both during and after pregnancy, limit your exposure to dust mites and other allergens, and encourage breastfeeding for at least six months to lower your child’s risk of developing asthma.
Maintain a healthy weight for your child, keep your home clean, and limit your exposure to air pollutants. Pregnancy-related fish oil supplements and safe pet exposure may also be beneficial. Prevention requires controlling triggers and scheduling routine medical examinations.