From springtime pollens to dangerous air pollution levels, there are many hazards out there that could be affecting the health of your child’s lungs. As a parent, it is important to know how to keep your kid’s lungs healthy throughout the year, in all environments, so they can develop a healthy respiratory system for life. Follow our pulmonologist for kids and adults in our article below to learn some helpful tips for good lung health in both children and adults.
How to Keep Your Kid’s Lungs Healthy
Stay Away from Polluted Air
This might go without saying, but depending on where you live, staying away from air pollution can be easier said than done. While it might not be possible to completely avoid polluted air, you can reduce the amount of bad air your child is exposed to by keeping them inside the home and away from traffic. Cars and roads produce chemical fumes that can mix with the air and have an unhealthy impact on your child’s lungs. Try to keep them out of the street and in places with clean, filtered air as much as you can.
Avoid Secondhand Smoke
One of the most disastrous effects that you can have on your child’s lungs is exposing them to secondhand smoke. No matter what kind of substance you might be smoking, it presents a clear danger to those with developing lungs. According to the CDC, secondhand smoke can trigger asthma attacks, increase the risk of upper respiratory infections, and slow down the progress of lung growth.
If your child has frequent ear infections, coughs, and trouble breathing, consider how much smoke is in their environment and get in touch with your asthma doctor ASAP.
Reduce Risk at Home
There remain many things you can do at home to ensure that your child stays raised in an environment supportive of their overall lung health. Investing in air purifiers, air filters, and other systems that provide clean air is a huge step forward in protecting the health of your child’s lungs. You can also help your children reduce the risk of getting infections by practicing healthy hygiene habits.
You can greatly reduce infection risks with the following simple activities:
- Washing hands regularly after touching dirty objects or going to the bathroom
- Properly preparing food in a sanitary location
- Signing up for the yearly flu and influenza vaccine
- Investing in seasonal allergy prevention with medication
- Wearing a face mask when in public or crowded locations
Since your child’s lungs are still developing, it is important to take extra precautions during their childhood to ensure they are on the right track to staying healthy.
Get in Touch with Your Child’s Asthma Doctor ASAP
The most important precaution you can take when protecting your child’s lung and respiratory health: contact a specialized asthma doctor. By establishing a good relationship with your doctor, you can help create a personal treatment plan that works to benefit the health of your growing child. The earlier you can see the doctor, the easier to prevent more serious respiratory issues down the line.
At the office of Dr. Mayank Shukla, we offer top-notch pulmonology care for kids of all ages. As a pediatric pulmonology expert, Dr. Mayank Shukla is equipped with the specific treatments and resources needed to encourage the development of healthy lungs in your child. You shouldn’t have to worry about the health of their respiratory system every day; by taking small steps to ensure your child is breathing clean air at home, you can avoid some of the worst symptoms of asthma. Get in touch with us today to learn more.
