You may be wondering how air quality affects your child’s health, especially as the spring allergy season is underway. We spoke with Dr. Amy Brown, pediatric pulmonologist and environmental health specialist, about how to keep your family healthy.
In New York State, 1 in 12 children live with asthma, and in CT 1 in 8 children are living with asthma. This is a significant issue for families, frequently acting as a leading cause of school absenteeism, parental missed work days, healthcare utilization and ER visits.
Children are more vulnerable to variations in air quality than adults because their lungs, brain, and immune system are still developing. They also breathe more air relative to their body size and may be outside more often due to sports or playtime.
There are several actions you can take to keep your family healthy and free of respiratory symptoms. Dr. Brown recommends the following tips when it comes to indoor and outdoor air quality.
Improve indoor air quality. Use a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) purifier in bedrooms, particularly if your child has asthma or allergies. Be sure to change HVAC filters regularly and maintain ventilation systems in your home. Limit the use of strongly scented cleaning products or air fresheners, which can irritate lungs. Do not allow smoking or vaping indoors. And open windows when outdoor air quality is good to improve ventilation.
Monitor outdoor air quality. Check daily air quality before outdoor play using online tools or weather apps. Walk or bike short distances with your child when possible, which reduces pollution and enhances their physical and mental health. Stay away from idling cars, including your own vehicle (exhaust is a major trigger for childhood asthma). Plant flowers, a garden, trees, or otherwise contribute to green space in your area which helps improve air quality.
If your child exhibits any of the following symptoms, call your pediatrician. They are always happy to answer questions or schedule a visit.
“Families often don’t realize how much the environment around us affects children’s lungs, allergies, and overall well-being,” says Dr. Brown. “The good news is that many of the most powerful solutions are simple and doable at home or in our communities. Small actions really can make a big difference for children’s health.”