|
|
|
 Asthma’s family ties
Asthma — unlike your grandmother’s china or your father’s pocket watch — is probably one inheritance you’d rather avoid. Unfortunately, the disease tends to be passed down from generation to generation. If one or both of your parents have asthma, for example, you may be more likely to develop it. The same goes for your children if you have the condition. So, what can you do for yourself and your kids if family history puts you at risk?
Start early
Researchers don’t know exactly what causes this lung condition. However, they believe a combination of factors increases the risk. In addition to having parents with asthma, these can include:
- A family history of allergies
- Certain respiratory infections during childhood
- Contact with some airborne allergens or exposure to certain viral infections in infancy or in early childhood
You can’t completely eliminate the risk of asthma. However, certain steps may help delay or perhaps prevent the disease for children who are at increased risk, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.
Limit airborne allergens in your home. A common source is dust mites — often found in household items such as bedding, carpet and upholstered furniture. To help reduce dust mites in your home:
- Wash bedding in hot water every seven to 10 days.
- Use zippered, plastic covers on pillows and mattresses.
- Keep indoor relative humidity below 50 percent.
- Consider removing objects that could have dust mites, such as carpets, stuffed animals or items that could collect dust.
Avoid secondhand smoke exposure. Children who are exposed to it may be more likely to get asthma. It’s one of many reasons to be sure kids don’t come in contact with tobacco smoke. That’s true even before they’re born. Babies whose mothers smoke during pregnancy are more likely to wheeze — a sign of asthma.
Consider breast-feeding your infant. Doing so for at least six months can help make your child’s immune system stronger. This may help him or her avoid respiratory infections that are linked to asthma.
Know the signs
Though asthma most often starts in childhood, you also can develop the disease as an adult. If you begin to have symptoms, it’s important to treat them right away, before they become severe. Talk with your doctor if you notice these common signs:
- Coughing. It may be worse at night or in the early morning.
- Wheezing. It’s a squeaky or whistling sound when you breathe.
- Shortness of breath. Feeling like you can’t get a full breath.
No matter what age asthma develops, there are many ways to help control the disease. The key is working with your doctor. Most people who have asthma are able to manage it and live normal, active lives.
|
|
|
Take a deep breath
Let myuhc.com help you learn more about asthma. Click “Health & Wellness.” Select “Conditions AtoZ,” and then choose a topic under “Asthma.”
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
