Every Woman
Caring for Kids: Springtime allergy and asthma problems
An asthma attack occurs when your body’s airways swell, preventing less air from getting in and out of your lungs. The attack may include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and trouble breathing.
Asthma attacks can be triggered year-round.
Some common causes of asthma attacks are
- Bad weather
- Changes in the season due to pollen
- Some foods
- Pets
- Medical conditions such as respiratory infections
- Dust and dust mites
- Tobacco smoke
- Air pollution and strong odors
- Mold
- Intense exercise
- Some medicines
Spring brings special concerns.
Springtime can bring about allergy and asthma symptoms. As the weather warms up, plants and trees bloom, sending allergens through the air. Indoors, small particles can be circulated throughout the house when you open the windows, turn on the air conditioning and dust.
If changes in the seasons trigger your child’s asthma,
- Ask your pediatrician whether you need to have your child take or increase anti-inflammatory medicine before the allergy season starts.
- Plan to change the air filter for your heating/air conditioning unit. Using HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters or HEPA air cleaners may be helpful for children with asthma, but research is still being done in this area.
- Develop an asthma action plan with your pediatrician. This will give you a handy reference on how to avoid asthma triggers and steps to follow when symptoms occur.
Dr. Tien is welcoming new patients at MetroHealth Beachwood Health Center. For an appointment, call 216-957-9959.
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