Increasing allergic cough among children: How can parents take care

As the Air Quality Index (AQI) drops, there has been a spike in number of children complaining of respiratory issues. Health experts are observing 30 to 40% increase in breathing issues among children, as compared to last year. With morning smog and high pollution levels during festive season, the numbers are expected to touch a higher side in coming weeks. Among the complaints, allergic rhinitis, chronic cough and shortness of breath are quite prevalent among children these days. Allergic rhinitis causes irritation in nose, thus leading to sneezing, itching, runny nose among kids. Similarly, chronic cough could be due to infections or allergies causing wheezing, shortness of breath etc.

Air pollution is detrimental to child’s overall health, since it not only affects their breathing and lungs, but also affects their immunity and growth. Long-term exposure to polluted air can also lead to bronchitis and long-term respiratory issues.

Factors:

Various factors contribute to the respiratory allergies among children. Genetics play an important role. Environmental factors like pollution, temperature, smog, eating habits and lifestyle etc. play a vital role.
We have also observed that nowadays children with such breathing issues and cough they do not get better even after 2-3 weeks of medication, which earlier was four to five days only. Pollution causes oxidative stress and triggers the inflammation in the lungs.

Hence, exposure to pollution should be avoided. Vulnerable age group like children, elderly, pregnant women should avoid indoor pollution like tobacco smoke, fumes, incense sticks, dhoop-sticks, mosquito coils etc. Not many know that indoor pollutants can also have a negative impact on lung health and hence people should be cautious of both- outdoor and indoor pollutants.

Precautions and treatment:

For parents, it is important to identify the triggers that leads to allergies, cough and breathing issues It is imperative to consult an allergy specialist, identify the allergens and treat it. The nasal sprays and inhalers should be used as recommended by the doctor. These medications directly reach the lungs and do not have any major side effects, as usually thought. Their continuous use does not cause any dependence or addiction.
Parents should also encourage their kids to play indoors and avoid polluted air as much as possible.

While going to schools, it is imperative that children should wear proper masks to decrease exposure to polluted air. Moreover, good nutritious food and physical activities are important to maintain overall good health and immunity.

(Dr Sunita Chhapola Shukla is the founder and director, Mumbai Allergy Centre, Mumbai)