Are you struggling at supporting a child with asthma through lifestyle changes? It can be an emotional and overwhelming experience when your child receives an asthma diagnosis. Nevertheless, you can give them a space to thrive by adjusting your family’s daily habits and helping them manage their medication and avoid triggers. The following tips can guide you in supporting a child with asthma through lifestyle changes that’ll foster a healthier and safer home.
Create an Allergy-Friendly Space
Dust mites, pet dander, and mold are common culprits that can worsen asthma symptoms. So, one of the most significant steps you can take is to minimize allergens and irritants in your living space. Keep your indoor air as clean as possible with the following actions:
- Washing bedding weekly in hot water and encasing mattresses and pillows in allergen-resistant covers.
- Brushing and bathing pets frequently and keeping their sleeping areas clean.
- Using a dehumidifier to help reduce mold and mildew growth, especially in damp areas like basements and bathrooms.
- Refraining from using harsh, fume-releasing cleaning products and instead using fragrance-free or plant-based cleaners,
Consider leveraging advanced home comfort technology to improve air quality. Innovations like HEPA filters and UV filtration for high-efficiency HVAC systems are particularly beneficial for capturing particles like pollen and dust and even killing viruses and bacteria. Additionally, whole-home air purifiers can complement your current setup, continuously scrubbing the air and reducing airborne contaminants.
Make Your Car Asthma-Friendly
Beyond the house, your child spends a good amount of time in the car, whether heading to school, soccer practice, or on a road trip. Keep it asthma-safe by vacuuming regularly and wiping down surfaces to minimize dust.
Avoid hanging air fresheners, as synthetic fragrances can trigger symptoms. Finally, change your car’s cabin air filter (aff link) regularly to prevent pollutants from recirculating in the vehicle.
Encourage Physical Activity Safely
Exercise is important for your child’s overall health, but it can be intimidating for children with asthma. Many kids can stay active by managing their symptoms effectively.
Choose sports or activities that suit your child’s comfort level, such as swimming, which is often well-tolerated because of the moist air. Always have their inhaler on hand and ensure your child understands how to use it. Communicate with their coaches and teachers so they can provide support if needed.
Stay Consistent With Asthma Plans
Consistency is key to implementing lifestyle changes to support your child with asthma. This condition doesn’t have to control your child’s life as long as you keep track of their triggers, medications, and ongoing treatments in a written action plan.
Share the action plan with everyone involved in your child’s care so there’s a unified approach, whether at home or school. These intentional changes, paired with quality medical care, pave the way for fewer symptoms and a more peaceful household.
