Climate change impacts more than just the environment. It can impact people’s overall health and well-being. This includes rising temperatures and changes in weather patterns. These changes can make asthma, allergies, and breathing problems worse for everyone. Treatment from a pediatric pulmonologist serving Manhattan is necessary to improve symptoms. You may wonder, is climate change affecting my kid’s health? Below, you will find helpful information on keeping your child healthy.
Is Climate Change Affecting My Kid’s Health?
Parents are increasingly concerned with the impact of climate change on their children’s health. Children are especially vulnerable due to their development. Changes in temperature, weather patterns, and air quality can impact children’s health. Children with asthma and allergies are even more vulnerable. There are several ways that climate change is impacting your child’s health. Understanding their risk is essential to ensuring their development and overall health.
Changes in Pollen Counts
Rising temperatures result in warmer weather. This results in plants growing faster and producing more pollen. Experts have determined that pollen counts are much higher than in recent decades. Changing wind patterns also result in pollen travelling longer distances. In recent years, there has been an increase in allergy symptoms among those living in cities.
The changes in pollen counts lead to several issues when it comes to children’s health. Increased pollen counts are associated with increased airway inflammation in children with asthma. This often triggers more asthma attacks and nasal congestion. Children who have allergies may notice worse symptoms. This includes more intense symptoms or symptoms that start earlier than usual.
Increase in Mold in the Environment
Mold is a common trigger for allergies and asthma. Climate change has resulted in increasing rainfall and humidity. Moist environments are a breeding ground for mold growth. This includes mold indoors and outdoors. Mold is a powerful trigger that can worsen symptoms in children.
Children exposed to mold experience wheezing, sinus inflammation, and coughing at night. This can occur due to outdoor mold exposure alone. However, mold indoors is especially impactful. Water leaks, damp basements, and storm exposure can spike indoor mold. Be vigilant about moisture in your home to reduce the impact on your child’s health.
Longer Allergy Seasons
Allergy season was much more predictable in the past. Recent decades have come with serious unpredictability that has made allergy season more impactful. Pollen counts have increased and appeared earlier than usual. Additionally, allergy season has continued into the fall season, unlike before.
Extended allergy seasons increase inflammation. This is harmful for children with asthma or allergies. It makes it much harder to recover between allergy seasons. Specialists have witnessed the impact of longer allergy seasons on children. To reduce the risk of harm, consult with a top asthma doctor. They can create a customized treatment plan to reduce your child’s symptoms.
Increase in Environmental Allergens
Climate change results in more allergens circulating in the air. This is exacerbated by higher temperatures and increased carbon dioxide levels. Mold, dust mites, and allergen-producing plants thrive due to these environmental changes.
Because children are constantly growing and developing, an increase in environmental allergens can lead to health issues. It is common to have chest tightness, coughing, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes. Children may also experience more severe reactions to what they were formerly only mildly sensitive to.
How to Reduce the Impact of Climate Change on Children’s Health
There are several ways you can reduce the impact of climate change on your child’s health. Taking steps to protect their developing lungs and immune system can protect their health. These simple changes should be done in combination with working with the top asthma doctor. A comprehensive approach is necessary to ensure your child’s long-term health.
Improve Indoor Air Quality
Children may spend a lot of time indoors, especially during the colder months. They may also have to stay indoors during allergy season and when the air quality is poor. Because of this, it is important to prioritize indoor air quality. There are several effective ways to achieve this. Keep your windows closed on high-pollen days and use HEPA air filters. Clean frequently with non-toxic cleaners. Focus on soft surfaces as they can harbor allergens. Reduce the risk of mold, especially in basements and bathrooms.
Monitor Air Conditions
You can easily look up the air quality and pollen forecast. Children are especially vulnerable to these changes. Adjust outdoor activities and play on days that have poor air quality or high pollen count. This can help avoid flare-ups and ensure your child stays safe. If you have to go outdoors, be sure your child is hydrated and wears a mask if necessary.
Improve Your Child’s Immune System and Lung Health
It is key to implement strategies that improve your child’s lung function and immune system. Starting early can reap major rewards when it comes to their long-term health. Easy ways to achieve this include a consistent sleep routine and minimizing stress. Additionally, ensure your child eats a balanced diet filled with nutrient-dense foods and stays hydrated. Regular physical activity is also essential. Work with an asthma doctor to ensure it is a plan curated to your child’s unique needs.
Does my Child Need to See a Pediatric Pulmonologist?
Early intervention is key when it comes to your child’s health. If your child experiences frequent asthma attacks or allergies, schedule an appointment. Symptoms that also point towards a need for evaluation include coughing, wheezing, and sleep issues caused by these symptoms. An asthma doctor can perform lung function testing and evaluate their symptoms. Be sure to share the frequency and severity of their symptoms.
From there, a specialist can create a personal asthma or allergy treatment plan. Advanced treatments may be necessary to support their long-term health. Leaving asthma or allergies untreated can cause serious health issues. A tailored treatment plan can reduce your child’s health risks associated with environmental issues.
Top Asthma Doctor
If your child needs treatment for allergies or asthma, contact Dr. Shukla and his team at the Asthma & Sleep Institute today to schedule an appointment!
