Spring is the most critical season for children who experience asthma, pollen allergies and hay fever, a pediatrician said, urging parents to have medication available for children who have these conditions.
Asthma is a chronic illness that inflames the respiratory tract, and can be triggered by allergic reactions or viral infections, Taipei Medical University Hospital head of pediatrics Chang Hsi (張璽) said.
Pollen, dust mites, pet fur, cockroach droppings, mold, second-hand smoke and air pollutants are common allergens, while cold drinks, intense sports activity, emotional outbursts and some medications — aspirin and beta-blockers, for instance — can also trigger an asthma attack, Chang said.
Photo: George Tsorng, Taipei Times
“Signs of a serious attack include nostrils quivering, respiratory muscles pulsating or, in severe cases, an inability to speak clearly and form sentences,” Chang said. “These cases require hospital attention or anti-inflammatory medicine to stabilize the condition.”
“Repeated asthma attacks or allergic reactions can affect daily living and cause lung damage,” he added.
One way to control asthma and hay fever attacks is to keep a living environment free of pollutants, and to consume warm drinks, especially avoiding iced beverages, Chang said.
Dehumidifiers should be used and household clutter should be reduced to prevent dust mites, he said, adding that mites thrive in moist conditions.
Bed sheets, duvets, pillow cases and plush toys should be washed once or twice a week, first immersed in hot water at about 55°C for at least 10 minutes before going into a washing machine, and tumble-dried at a minimum of 60°C, Chang said.
Curtains should also be washed regularly, and floors should be free of carpeting, he added.
An alternative to washing plush toys is to seal them in a plastic bag and put them in a freezer for 24 hours, and then wash by hand and hang to dry, he said.
An asthma attack should be immediately treated by rest, drinking warm water and using a medicated inhaler, Chang said, adding that medical attention should be sought and oral medication used if the condition does not improve.
Prednisone and related drugs are recommended for first-line use to treat respiratory tract inflammation, which can prevent pulmonary fibrosis and reduce lung damage from post-inflammation reactions, he said.
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