Allergic asthma is a type of asthma that flares up when you breathe in substances you’re allergic to. These substances could be anything from pollen and pet dander to dust mites and mold spores. When these allergens enter your child’s airways, they trigger asthma symptoms that are often uncomfortable and distressing. Here’s what Atlanta parents should know about the impact of allergic asthma.
How Can Allergic Asthma Affect Children?
Allergic asthma can affect children differently, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. While each child’s experience is unique, there are several common ways this condition typically affects daily life.
Respiratory Issues
Wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath are some of the symptoms associated with allergic asthma. Children can struggle to breathe easily at various points during their day, often after allergen exposure or exercise. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to avoid environmental allergens like pollen and dust mites, so respiratory flare-ups are hard to predict.
Impact on Sleep Quality
Children need a consistent sleep schedule to maintain good health and meet developmental milestones. However, asthma symptoms can frequently disturb nighttime rest, leading to tiredness and lack of focus. If your allergist recognizes the need for a treatment for allergic asthma, they may prescribe a bronchodilator, corticosteroids, or even immunotherapy to desensitize the immune system.
Limitations on Physical Activity
After experiencing a severe asthma attack a child may feel anxious about triggering respiratory symptoms. One response may be to stop physical activity at the first signs of wheezing or chest tightness, and to avoid outdoor activities. However, when a child misses taking part in these activities they can miss out on important social interactions and exercise.
Effects on Academic Performance
For some children with allergic asthma, academic performance can suffer as well. The combination of missed days due to asthma attacks, fatigue from sleeping issues, plus anxiety over potential allergy triggers can make it challenging for a child to stay focused and perform their best in school.
Emotional and Psychological Well-Being
Dealing with allergic asthma can place a strain on young children. In particular, the unpredictability of asthma attacks often leads to ongoing stress and worry, and for some children, social situations and group activities can unfortunately become a source of anxiety. Thankfully, these concerns can become more manageable over time with professional treatment and management strategies.
Ongoing Daily Management and Care
Managing allergic asthma symptoms will require a change to a family’s daily routines. Once the allergy triggers have been identified, steps can be taken to avoid exposure. These include ensuring that bedding is clean, checking pollen counts and attending regular check-ups. Your allergist will also advise you on the best asthma treatment options, including inhalers, leukotriene modifiers and allergy shots.
Visit Us for Allergic Asthma Testing and Treatment in Atlanta
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center provides asthma testing and treatment services for children. Visit one of our Atlanta locations for expert allergic asthma management. To reach us, call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment today.
