How to Prevent Asthma Exacerbation in Children
- 1). Stop smoking. The pollution from cigarettes is very different from other pollution, as it is known to cause inflammation in children (including ear infections). This is apart from the effects of secondhand smoke. The last thing an asthmatic needs is emphysema on top of her respiratory problems. Even secondhand smoke that is undetectable by regular smokers can embed itself in the cloth on furniture or drapes, as well as carpeting, stuffed animals, clothing, and even wood surfaces.
- 2). Install hardwood floors. Hard floors do not hold dust and are easier to clean. Carpets tend to collect dust and debris over time, even if they are cleaned regularly. If you do have a carpet, shampoo it regularly and do not allow it to mold or mildew as it dries. Remove it and replace it regularly. Never let it get wet. Vacuum it every day--or just get a hardwood floor. Some patients' symptoms are completely resolved through this simple act alone.
- 3). Make sure the child exercises in moist, warm environments and avoids the dry, cold air. If you use a humidifier, make sure it is very well-maintained. Cool mist is less likely to harbor bacteria. Favorite warm and moist environments in which to exercise include indoor swimming pools (without excessive chlorine). Steam rooms are not safe to exercise in, since the heat can be dehydrating, but they are a soothing solution after a swim. Outdoor water sports are helpful on summer days.
- 4). Avoid giving the child spicy foods and chocolate. Strange as it may seem, chocolate and spicy food can loosen the ring of muscles that keep the top of the stomach closed, and can allow a little stomach acid to leak out, causing heartburn. This stomach acid can irritate the esophagus and trigger asthma attacks. Also, keep in mind that heartburn also leads to cancer at alarming rates if it is left untreated. See a doctor about long-term management of this condition. Also, have the child avoid eating within 3 hours of bedtime and elevate her sleeping position to sitting to prevent stomach content leakage.
- 5). Understand that sickness can trigger asthma. The flu in particular can be fatal to people with respiratory complications, making vaccination a high priority for asthmatics. Illness in general can be prevented with hand washing and greater sanitation. If the child is in a school or daycare situation, know that illness exchange rates increase if the classrooms are overcrowded and toys/supplies are not treated regularly with disinfectant.
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