In children, especially those under five years of age, what triggers crises are viral infections.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 150 million people suffer from asthma worldwide. In Brazil, data from the Ministry of Health shows that 20 million Brazilians suffer from asthma, including children and adults. Each year, 350,000 hospital admissions occur due to more extreme cases, making it the third leading cause of hospitalization in the Unified Health System (SUS).
According to pediatrician Tássia Rodrigues (CRM-RJ 5290066-4 and RQE 29.815/29.816), asthma is a generally multifactorial condition, in which environmental factors add to the genetic predisposition to the possible development of the disease. “Asthma can manifest itself early and in milder conditions, such as a persistent cough, which can lead to shortness of breath, straining to breathe, and wheezing, which we technically call wheezing,” he explains.
The doctor explains that the solutions to treat the problem consist of maintaining the drugs, used in asymptomatic periods to prevent new attacks, and also in treating the asthma attack acutely, which may require hospitalization in the most severe cases .
Dr. Tássia – Photographic advertising
According to Tássia, there are patients who can trigger an asthma attack due to stress. However, he points out that the most common is contact with allergens, such as dust, mites and some foods. The specialist points out that some patients worsen their asthma when they come into contact with respiratory viruses or through exercise. “Asthma has its peak incidence in childhood, then in old age, and tends to improve during adulthood. It is a chronic disease that requires monitoring and control by a specialist,” he warns.
In 2019, Broadway actress Laurel Griggs died at age 13 after suffering a severe asthma attack. At that time, news of the teenager’s death went around the world. According to the pediatrician, severe asthma is difficult to control because it often requires hospitalization in an intensive care unit (ICU) and, despite all the therapeutic equipment, can put the patient’s life at risk.
“This is why adequate diagnosis, monitoring and treatment are so important,” he concludes.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
