Childhood asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the child lower airways, directly affecting the lungs and bronchi. This inflammation results in the narrowing of the bronchi, thus hindering the entry and exit of air from the lungs. With an increase in prevalence in recent decades, this disease currently affects about 15% of Portuguese children.

Causes

The causes may be related to genetic factors but also with the widespread change of our lifestyle, resulting in environmental and climatic changes, as well as the permanent exposure to substances that can cause allergies - allergens. These substances may be dust mites in the house, animal fur, pollen from plants and flowers, mildew caused by humidity, or even certain colors and preservatives present in the food we eat. In addition to these allergens, asthma attacks can also be triggered by other highly toxic irritants such as intense perfumes scents, nail polishes and inks, talcum powder, cigarette smoke and widespread air pollution that contains toxic substances for the organism.

Prevention

Prevention starts by avoiding child exposure to all allergens and irritants, especially those we can easily avoid. In babies, it is also recommended to prolong breastfeeding, as it strengthens the immune system and slows the contact with food allergens.

Symptoms

Be aware of frequent episodes of an intense and a persistent cough in your child, breathlessness, chest tightness, difficult breathing (dyspnoea), wheezing or whistling breathing episodes.

Treatment

The early identification of these symptoms in the diagnosis of asthma is very important, not only for the adoption of preventive measures and the development of an appropriate therapy, but also for the fast and efficient resolution of future asthma attacks that may occur in children. Therefore, if your child shows any of the symptoms referred above, make sure to book an appointment with your doctor. Asthma is a disease that can be controlled if there is an early diagnosis, making it possible for the symptoms to mostly disappear over time and the child to keep his/her quality of life with all the security and tranquility that is needed.