Asthma treatment in Tehran children

Asthma treatment in Tehran children Asthma is one of the most common chronic childhood diseases that millions of children around the world and a significant number in Iran, especially in big cities like Tehran, struggle with. According to statistics, the prevalence of asthma symptoms in Tehrani children is worrying. This chronic inflammatory disease of the airways can severely affect the quality of life of the child and the family, and if not properly controlled, it can lead to severe attacks, hospitalization, and even serious consequences. Fortunately, with timely diagnosis and following a comprehensive and accurate treatment plan, asthma in children can be controlled and they can live an active and normal life. Understanding asthma in children Asthma is a complex disease in which the airways of the lungs become inflamed, swollen and sensitive. When exposed to stimuli (such as allergens, cold air, cigarette smoke, exercise, or viral infections), the airways narrow, mucus production increases, and symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness occur. These symptoms can range from mild to severe. Diagnosing asthma in children, especially those younger than 6 years, is challenging because lung function tests such as spirometry may not be accurate and its symptoms overlap with other respiratory diseases such as bronchiolitis or frequent colds. Pediatric lung specialist or pediatric allergy and immunology specialist makes the final diagnosis by reviewing the history, physical examination and, if necessary, additional tests (such as allergy tests or chest X-ray). Basic principles of asthma treatment in children Treatment of asthma in children is a multifaceted approach that aims to control symptoms, prevent asthma attacks, and improve the child's quality of life. This treatment includes the following: ### Identification and avoidance of stimuli This is the first and most important step in asthma management. A doctor can help parents identify common triggers for their child's asthma. These triggers can include: Environmental allergens: dust mites (in mattresses, pillows, carpets), pet dander (dogs, cats), pollen, mold. Non-allergic stimuli: cigarette smoke (the most important factor), air pollution (which is a serious challenge in Tehran), strong smells (perfume, detergents), cold and dry air, viral infections (colds, flu). Physical activity: In some children, exercise can cause asthma symptoms, which is called exercise-induced asthma. Solutions: using anti-mite covers for pillows and mattresses, avoiding keeping pets at home, proper ventilation of the home, completely avoiding cigarette smoke in the home environment, using a mask in polluted or cold and dry air. ### Drug therapy Asthma medications are divided into two main categories: #### Long-term control drugs (preventive) These medications are taken regularly and daily (even when there are no symptoms) and their goal is to reduce chronic inflammation of the airways and prevent asthma attacks. #### Inhaled corticosteroids The most common and effective control drugs are inhaled (using a spray and spacer or nebulizer). These drugs act locally in the lungs and have fewer side effects than oral corticosteroids. ### Education and management of asthma Asthma Action Plan: The doctor prepares a written and personalized asthma management plan for each child. The program includes clear instructions for taking medications, recognizing worsening symptoms, and what to do during an asthma attack. Parents should be fully familiar with this program. Monitoring the child's condition: Parents should record the child's symptoms and the frequency of use of rescue drugs and report to the doctor in the next visits. Communication with the school and coaches: ensuring that the school staff and sports coaches are aware of the child's asthma and how to react in an emergency. ### Lifestyle changes and supportive measures Healthy eating: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help lung health. Exercise: Regular physical activity is important for children with asthma, but must be properly managed (eg, taking rescue medication before exercise). Swimming is often recommended for asthmatic children. Stress management: Stress can trigger asthma. Helping the child to manage stress and anxiety is important. Air pollution control: On days with high air pollution in Tehran, it is better for asthmatic children not to leave the house or to use suitable masks. #### Summary Asthma in children is a manageable chronic disease that can be well controlled with the correct treatment approach and close family cooperation with the best children's lung specialist in Tehran. In a challenging city like Tehran, where air pollution and allergens can be strong triggers of asthma, careful and continuous follow-up of treatment becomes more important. By understanding the disease, learning about triggers, using medications correctly, and maintaining constant communication with a pediatrician, children with asthma can live normal, active, and healthy lives and enjoy their childhood to the fullest.