Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases of childhood. It is a lung disease characterized by difficulty in breathing, cough with sputum and sometimes fever. Children with asthma typically cough, wheeze, and experience chest tightness and shortness of breath.
Asthma in children and infants is a major health problem showing steady increase in prevalence both in developing and developed countries. Seventy-four percent of asthma attacks in children are experienced in children less than 5 years of age and 26 percent in less than one year of age. The ratio of male and female incidence is 2:1.
According to Ayurveda, asthma in children can be of two types: Beejadosha (genetic), or Sahaja (acquired).
Sahaja type of asthma is easy to treat, whereas asthma due to genetic causes (beejadosha) wherein there is a history of asthma in the family, is difficult to treat. In some cases, it has been observed that after 8th or 9th year of age the problem disappears spontaneously. This type of asthma may have been caused due to the imbalance of kaphadosha.
Kapha is one of the three biological energies or doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) responsible for health and disease in every human being. It is a mucus like substance, which is dense, heavy, firm, stable, slow, thick, sticky, wet, clear and cold in nature. In asthma, kapha imbalanced due to various causes accumulates in the lungs and leads to blockage of bronchioles. The blocked bronchioles in turn produce symptoms of asthma.
Common triggers include allergens like pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mould, as well as cold air, smoke, respiratory infections, and strong emotions that can lead to stress or excitement.
Stay away from the familiar triggers, make sure the child appropriately uses all prescribed medications, practice avoidance of dust and allergens in the immediate environment, and have regular check-ups with a physician.
While Ayurveda may not claim that but it helps in managing Asthma symptoms naturally. The principles of Ayurveda will help to alleviate the symptoms to a significant extent by diet and lifestyle changes.
It is beneficial to avoid exposure to smoke, engage in regular but light physical activities, consume nourishing foods, and perform breathing exercises which are helpful in the prevention and management of asthma.
Yes, following an anti-inflammatory diet which includes adequate fruits and vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids can reduce factors leading to asthma inflammation and avoiding certain kinds of food can prevent asthma attacks., while avoiding foods that trigger allergies can prevent flare-ups.
Techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing and pursed lip breathing can help control breathing, reduce shortness of breath, and strengthen the lungs.
When administered under the guidance of a qualified practitioner, Ayurvedic treatments are generally safe, but it's crucial to discuss any new treatments with your child's physician to avoid conflicts with existing medications.
The effectiveness and response time can vary depending on the individual's condition and consistency in following the treatment plan, but some may notice improvements within a few weeks.
Absolutely, children with asthma can play sports, provided their asthma is well-managed and monitored. Exercise, when done safely, can strengthen the respiratory system and improve overall health.
Increasing use of rescue inhalers, frequent coughing or wheezing, trouble breathing, or disturbances in sleep due to asthma symptoms are signs that your child's asthma may be worsening and require a consultation with a healthcare provider.
