What is asthama?
Asthma is a chronic (long-term) condition that affects the airways in the lungs, making it hard to breathe at times. It causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways.
What are the Symptoms of Asthma?
Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing)
Shortness of breath
Chest tightness
Coughing, especially at night or early morning
3.Why did my child get asthma?
Main Reasons Your Child May Have Developed Asthma
- Genetics (Family History)
If you, your partner, or close relatives have asthma, allergies, or eczema, your child is more likely to get asthma.
Asthma often runs in families. - Early Childhood Triggers
Respiratory infections (like RSV, bronchitis) during infancy can affect lung development and increase asthma risk. - Allergies
Children with allergies (dust, pollen, pets, foods) are more likely to have asthma.
Asthma and allergies often go hand-in-hand.
- Environmental Factors
Air pollution, secondhand smoke, dust mites, mold, and pet dander can all irritate a child’s lungs.
Living in cities or near traffic can increase asthma risk.
- Premature Birth
Children born prematurely may have underdeveloped lungs, making them more vulnerable to asthma. - Obesity
Overweight children may be at higher risk due to added strain on the lungs and inflammation in the body. - How will I identify if my child is having an asthma attack and how do I manage it at home?
🚨 How to Identify an Asthma Attack in a Child
✅ Mild to Moderate Attack Symptoms:
Coughing that won’t stop (especially at night or with activity)
Wheezing (whistling sound while breathing)
Shortness of breath or fast breathing
Complains of tightness in the chest
Difficulty talking or eating normally
Looks anxious or restless
Using more effort to breathe (may see stomach or chest muscles working hard)
❗ Severe Attack Signs – Medical Emergency
Breathing is very fast or labored
Can’t speak full sentences
Blue lips or fingernails
Child is drowsy, confused, or extremely tired
No improvement after using a rescue inhaler
🏠 How to Manage an Asthma Attack at Home
Step-by-Step:
🧘♀️ Stay Calm and Keep the Child Calm
Panic can worsen breathing.
Sit them upright (not lying down).
💨 Give Rescue Inhaler (e.g., Salbutamol/Albuterol)
Use a spacer with the inhaler if available.
Give 2 puffs, wait 1 minute between puffs.
If no improvement, give 2 more puffs every 20 minutes (up to 3 times).
⏱️ Watch for Response
If symptoms improve, continue to monitor and avoid triggers.
If not, seek emergency care immediately.
🚫 Remove Triggers
Take child away from smoke, dust, pets, cold air, or perfume.
📄 Follow Their Asthma Action Plan
If your doctor has provided a written plan, follow it step-by-step.
🏥 When to Go to the Hospital Immediately
Inhaler doesn’t help after 3 rounds
Child is gasping, turning blue, or faint
Trouble talking or walking
You are worried — trust your instincts
- How do I prevent my child getting an asthma attack?
To prevent your child from getting an asthma attack:
Avoid triggers like dust, smoke, pets, and cold air
Give daily preventive medicine as prescribed
Keep a rescue inhaler ready at all times
Follow the asthma action plan
Visit the doctor regularly to monitor and adjust treatment
Treat allergies and ensure flu vaccinations
Early control helps reduce attacks and keeps your child healthy.
- Is preventer inhaler (corticosteroid) habit forming for my child and what are the side effects?
No, preventer inhalers (corticosteroids) are not habit-forming for children. They are safe for long-term use to control asthma.
Common side effects (usually mild):
Hoarseness
Sore throat
Oral thrush (prevent by rinsing mouth after use)
Rare side effects (with high doses):
Slowed growth (monitored by doctors)
Mild hormonal effects
7.How do I give the inhalers to my child?
For Babies & Toddlers (Under 4 Years)
Use: Metered-Dose Inhaler (MDI) + Spacer + Mask
Steps:
Shake the inhaler well.
Insert the inhaler into the spacer.
Place the mask snugly over your child’s mouth and nose.
Press the inhaler once (1 puff).
Keep the mask in place for 5–6 slow breaths (about 30 seconds).
Repeat for more puffs if prescribed.
For Children (4 Years and Above)
Use: MDI + Spacer (Mouthpiece)
Steps:
Shake the inhaler.
Connect it to the spacer.
Have your child breathe out fully.
Put the mouthpiece in their mouth, lips sealed tightly.
Press the inhaler once (1 puff).
Ask them to breathe in slowly and deeply, then hold breath for 5–10 seconds.
Wait 30 seconds between puffs if more are needed.
- How should I clean the inhalers and spacer?
Steps:
Disassemble the spacer (remove mask/mouthpiece if attached).
Wash all parts in warm, soapy water (use mild dish soap).
Do not rinse – let the soapy water drain off naturally. This helps reduce static inside the spacer.
Air-dry fully – place on a clean towel. Do not towel dry, as it can cause static buildup.
Reassemble once fully dry.
How to Clean the Inhaler (MDI)
✅ Steps:
Remove the canister (do not wash the metal canister).
Rinse the plastic mouthpiece under warm water for 30 seconds.
Let it air-dry completely before putting the canister back in.
Clean it once a week or more if you see medicine build-up.
Important Tips:
Never put metal canister in water.
Don’t use harsh cleaners or hot water.
If your child is sick, clean more often to prevent reinfection.
9.Does my child require life long treatment?Add Your Heading Text Here
Not always.
Some children outgrow asthma or see symptoms improve with age, especially if it’s mild or triggered by infections or allergies.
However, if asthma is moderate to severe, long-term or ongoing treatment may be needed to keep it under control.
Regular checkups help adjust the treatment as your child grows.
10.Will Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Yoga, changing food habits, exercise, and fish therapy help my child?
What May Help (Supportive, Not Curative):
Yoga & Breathing Exercises (e.g., Pranayama)
Can improve lung function and help your child stay calm during breathing difficulty.
Healthy Food Habits
Anti-inflammatory foods (fruits, veggies, omega-3s) may reduce triggers. Avoid known food allergens.
Regular Exercise
Helps strengthen lungs — but must be asthma-friendly and supervised.
⚠️ What Needs Caution:
Ayurveda & Homeopathy
Some remedies claim benefits, but results vary and are not scientifically proven. Always consult a qualified doctor before using them with inhalers.