Asthma is a disease that can strike both adults and children. It affects breathing because of inflammation in the lungs, airway and respiratory tract. Although you can't always prevent your little one from developing asthma, there are certain steps that parents can take to at least help reduce the risk of asthma in children.
What You Can Do
Step 1
Keep your home sparkling clean. It seems like good common sense for a healthy baby, but ridding your home of potential allergens and irritants can help to reduce the risk of developing asthma or delay the onset of symptoms, says the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology. You'll want to limit dust mites in particular, so seal mattresses and pillows in cases that don't let allergens sink in. Vacuum and dust your home regularly, and wash all linens in very hot water. Try to limit upholstered furniture and accessories (rugs, carpets, drapes, etc.) in the baby's room.
Step 2
Get a pet. Exposing your baby to pets and animals early may actually help build up immunities and reduce the risk of asthma, says the AAAAI. Being around all that hair and dander seems to have a protective effect, so don't shield your child from the comfort--and hair--of a family pet.
Step 3
Stay away from smoke. This goes for pregnancy and after delivery, says the AAAAI. Preventing exposure to secondhand smoke during pregnancy,after the baby's born and throughout childhood can reduce the risk of asthma.
Step 4
Breast-feed your baby for a minimum of four to six months. Breast-feeding provides your baby with a number of immunities--including protection against asthma. The AAAAI says that lung infections in babies are linked to the development of asthma, but that breast-feeding boosts a baby's immune system to help ward off infections and asthma.
Tips and Warnings
- Be on the lookout for warning signs of asthma in your child, including coughing, wheezing and difficulty breathing.
- Take your child to the doctor for an examination and diagnosis if you suspect asthma is the cause of your child's symptoms.
