According to the Asthma and allergy Foundation of America, 45% of parents said their asthmatic children had been awakened by coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath, a condition called nocturnal asthma.Most asthmatic kids also have allergies, which can set off asthma symptoms.
To control nightime asthma, it is crucial to reduce allergy triggers in the child’s bedroom:
Dust mites are tiny, common bedroom pests, lurking in sheets, blankets, mattresses, pillows, carpets, and stuffed toys.
To decrease dust mites, wash bedding in hot water once a week. Enclose mattress and pillows in dustproof/allergen-free covers. Remove carpet from the bedroom or vacuum frequently. Buy only washable stuffed toys and clean them often in hot water. Keep them off beds.
Shut bedroom windows to keep airborne pollen from blowing inside. Use an air conditioner to reduce pollen amounts in the air.
Clean any visible indoor mold. Then, eliminate moisture sources which feed it. Look for water seepage from outside walls, under floors, standing water around indoor plants, and damp areas in bathrooms.
These steps can minimize night time attacks, but if your child still has flare-ups, see a specialist to identify the culprits.
