Air pollution is a serious concern for many parents. This is especially true for parents with children who have asthma or other respiratory conditions. Children are more vulnerable to poor air quality for several reasons. Their lungs are still developing, and children breathe much faster than adults. When pollution levels rise, the risk of long-term breathing problems and asthma attacks also increases. This is especially true if the child does not have an effective asthma treatment plan. Below are the effects of high AQI on child asthma.
The Effects of High AQI on Child Asthma
High AQI levels carry significant risks for children, especially those with asthma. Several cities around the world have recorded some of the highest AQI levels. Delhi and Baghdad are especially vulnerable areas for children with respiratory conditions. Consider the short- and long-term effects of high AQI on children.
Short-Term Health Effects of High AQI
High AQI levels can be immediately detrimental to children’s health. Those with asthma experience immediate symptoms that can impact daily life.
Respiratory Symptoms
The short-term effects of high AQI include respiratory symptoms associated with asthma. This includes wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing. Pollution can immediately inflame the airways. This causes narrowing, which leads to respiratory symptoms that make rest and daily life difficult. Without an effective treatment plan, this can have serious consequences on the affected child’s health.
Immediate Irritation to the Eyes, Nose, and Throat
Air pollution immediately impacts the eyes, nose, and throat. Children with asthma often experience irritation. Common symptoms include burning sensations, sore throat, and persistent discomfort. These symptoms are often accompanied by a runny nose, stuffiness, and itchy or watery eyes.
Emergency Room Visits
Children with asthma require an effective treatment plan from New York’s top asthma doctor. Without this, the risk of serious harm increases. In areas with high pollution levels, emergency room visits often increase. Even otherwise healthy children can develop asthma-like symptoms, including wheezing and coughing.
Long-Term Health Effects of High AQI
High AQI causes several short-term health issues. However, pollution also increases the risk of long-term health issues. Taking control of one’s health is necessary to reduce the risk of future health problems.
Reduced Lung Capacity
Over time, exposure to pollution can slow down lung growth. Research has shown that children living in areas with high pollution are smaller than those living in areas with lower pollution. This limits the children’s lifelong respiratory health.
Chronic Respiratory Issues
Long-term exposure to pollution leads to chronic airway inflammation. When this occurs, it increases the risk of persistent asthma, chronic bronchitis, and respiratory infections. These issues can lead to lifelong health issues. This includes lower exercise tolerance and reduced oxygen exchange. This can impact your daily life and ability to stay in shape.
How to Manage Asthma with Poor AQI
Managing asthma during periods of high pollution requires proactive planning. Parents of children, especially those with asthma, should monitor AQI levels. There are reliable mobile applications that can help facilitate this. Below are several effective ways to reduce the risk of harm on high-pollution days.
Stay Indoors
On days with poor AQI, it is important to limit outdoor exposure. This includes outdoor sports, playing outside, and even going to the park. Staying inside is one of the best ways to protect your children. If you do need to go outdoors, it is helpful to wear a mask and keep your child covered as much as possible.
Manage Indoor Air Quality
Keep windows and doors closed on days with high pollution levels. This prevents pollution from entering your home. Additionally, use HEPA air purifiers inside your home. This can reduce indoor pollution and protect your child’s health. Regular cleaning practices are also beneficial. Clean soft surfaces, wash bedding, and dust often. If you are outdoors on high pollution days, remove and wash your clothing right away. This prevents it from getting into your bedding.
Maintain Healthy Habits Regularly
Children with asthma benefit from healthy habits every day. This includes a healthy diet and staying hydrated. Be sure your child consumes a diet filled with fruits, vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats. They should also drink plenty of water, as staying hydrated helps thin mucus in the airways. Regular physical activity is also critical. Talk with your child’s asthma doctor about how much and what kind of physical activity is right for your child.
Follow Your Asthma Action Plan
Every child should have an asthma treatment plan to ensure their short- and long-term respiratory health. The plan should include when to use rescue inhalers, when to use maintenance medication, and what to do during asthma flare-ups. Inhaler use is often necessary during days with high pollution. Be sure to keep it close by in case of an emergency.
When to Contact an Asthma Doctor
Knowing when to seek medical care for your child’s asthma is important. Getting on an effective asthma treatment plan can set your child up for lifelong success. Regular check-ins ensure modifications are made when necessary. If you notice any of the following signs, it is time to schedule an appointment with an asthma doctor.
- Increased use of a rescue inhaler
- Sleep issues due to coughing or problems with breathing
- Symptoms that get worse for more than a few days
- Reduced physical activity due to breathing problems
- Daytime fatigue due to sleep issues related to asthma symptoms
- Emergency room visit
- Persistent symptoms even after AQI improves
Working with a skilled and experienced asthma doctor can improve your child’s health. With an effective treatment plan, symptoms improve, sleep improves, and daytime fatigue is no longer an issue. This will have a positive impact on their daily life at school. Avoid waiting due to the consequences of untreated asthma on your child’s health.
New York’s Top Asthma Doctor
Untreated asthma can lead to unwanted symptoms and the risk of long-term health issues. If you need treatment for asthma, contact Dr. Shukla at the Asthma & Sleep Institute today to schedule your consultation!
