Increasing incidence of asthma in children in autumn

Childhood asthma typically worsens in the fall due to the change of season and the return to school. This allows us to predict an increase in incidence in the fall compared to the summer, when this respiratory disease is less active.

To find out the reasons for the exacerbation of asthma in the fall, we spoke with Dr. José Maria Ignacio García, head of the pulmonology department at the Quironsalud Marbella and Quironsalud Campo de Gibraltar hospitals, who also gives us tips on preventing attacks in childhood.

The number of cases of asthma in children increased in the fall

back to school This is the main reason for the sharp increase in the number of childhood asthma cases. Children interact with other minors in schools or kindergartens, which makes them more susceptible to viruses, bacteria and other diseases that can eventually cause asthma attacks, more or less severe, due to damage to the inflamed bronchi.

Causes of childhood asthma

Among most common factors found infections viral, smoking tobacco wave pollution.

Other Possible Causes Asthma in childhood – allergensfor example, dust mites; fungi, such as Alternaria, that grow in damp areas of homes and on the epithelium or fur of animals.

6 tips to avoid allergic asthma as a child

Although exposure to allergens is difficult to prevent, the following can be included: preventive measures at home:

1. Observe possible humidity in the house
2. Don’t use carpets
3. Wash the curtains often
4. Avoid stuffed animals and playthings. which contribute to the accumulation of dust
5. Use tick-resistant mattresses and pillows.
6. Wash your bed linen not less than 60°

On the other hand, control of exposure to tobacco smoke is important and easier to maintain. The home should be a smoke-free area.

and that parents and family members agree not to smoke.

When to suspect your child has asthma

Children with asthma exhibit these signs anxiety:

• Produces sounds or wheezing when breathing
• Present respiratory distress or shortness of breathwhich is known as shortness of breath
• Experience the feeling chest pressure
• Cough with different intensity and frequency

If you notice any of these common signs of asthma, it’s best to go to a consultation to evaluate each case. Tests such as spirometry, bronchodilator testing, or exhaled nitric oxide testing may be indicated for early diagnosis of the disease in childhood.

Asthma in children under 3 years of age

Asthma symptoms are similar for this age group. However, they can be confused with the consequences caused by infectious diseases, especially viral ones.

How to live with childhood asthma

In this In 95% of cases you can lead a normal life, because the treatment is very effective. Sometimes you can choose immunotherapy, which produces very positive results.

In addition, families can be offered information on how to manage the condition and asthma attacks, and help them recognize warning signs of worsening asthma.

The importance of asthma control

It should be added that poor control of this disease increases the frequency of exacerbations of the disease, which requires urgent attention from specialists. It also harms the minor’s quality of life and causes non-attendance.

Other problems associated with poor asthma control include stunted growth, increased risk of childhood obesity, and negative cognitive and intellectual outcomes.