Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of people worldwide including many children. It is a condition that can cause wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.

If left unmanaged, asthma can result in serious complications that may require hospitalization or even lead to death.

Causes of Asthma in Children

The exact cause of asthma is not known, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors trigger the disease. These factors include:.

Genetic Factors

Children with a history of asthma in their families are more likely to develop the disease. Parents who have had asthma or other related allergic diseases, such as hay fever and eczema, are more likely to have children with asthma.

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors that increase the risk of asthma include:.

Allergens: Dust mites, animal dander, pollen, and mold are some of the common allergens that can trigger asthma attacks in children.
Irritants: Cigarette smoke, air pollution, and strong odors from cleaning chemicals, perfumes and scented products can trigger asthma attacks in children.
Infections: Respiratory infections such as the common cold, flu and pneumonia can be triggers for asthma attacks in children.

How to Stop Your Child from Developing Asthma

While asthma is a chronic condition, there are steps that parents can take to reduce the risk of their children developing asthma. Here are some of the things parents can do:.

1. Promoting Breastfeeding

Babies who are exclusively breastfed for the first six months of their life have a lower risk of developing asthma. Breastmilk contains antibodies that help to protect babies against respiratory infections that can trigger asthma.

2. Avoiding Exposures to Allergens and Irritants

Parents can reduce the risk of their children developing asthma by avoiding exposure to allergens and irritants that trigger asthma attacks. They can do this by:.

Dusting and vacuuming regularly to remove dust, animal dander and mold spores.
Keeping the house free from smoke, including cigarette, fireplace and wood-burning stove smoke.
Avoiding harsh chemicals such as cleaning products, perfumes and scented products.

3. Maintaining Clean Air

Good air quality can prevent asthma attacks. Parents can ensure clean air by:.

Installing air filters to capture allergens and pollutants in the air.
Keeping the house well-ventilated by opening windows and doors regularly.
Investing in a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels in the house which can lead to the growth of mold and dust mites.

4. Keeping the Home Environment Safe

Parents can keep their homes safe for their children by:.

Keeping pets outside if possible.
Using allergen-proof covers and washing sheets and bedding regularly.
Storing food in airtight containers to prevent pests such as mice and cockroaches from entering the home.

5. Encouraging Regular Exercise

Regular exercise can help to improve lung function and reduce the risk of developing asthma. Parents can encourage their children to exercise by:.

Engaging in outdoor activities regularly.
Encouraging their children to participate in sports such as swimming, running or cycling.
Ensuring they are wearing protective gear such as helmets when doing certain sports.

Conclusion

Asthma can be a life-threatening condition, but there are steps that parents can take to reduce the risk of their children developing it.

Promoting breastfeeding, avoiding exposure to allergens and irritants, maintaining clean air, keeping the home environment safe, and encouraging regular exercise are all effective strategies for preventing asthma in children. By following these steps diligently, parents can keep their children healthy and safe.