Asma, it affects 1 in 10 children. Free screening for children and teenagers

Astma is a chronic respiratory disease very widespread in pediatric ageso much so that in western countries It affects about 1 in 10 children. If not diagnosed and not adequately treated, it can compromise not only respiratory health, but the quality of life of the child, with repercussions on sport, sleep and learning. On the occasion of the World Asma Day, which is celebrated on May 6ththe Italian society for childhood respiratory diseases (Simri)affiliated to the Italian Pediatric Society (SIP)renews his commitment with a concrete initiative aimed at families. Throughout the month of May In numerous specialized centers on the national territory they will be offered Free spirometries for children and teenagerstogether with moments of comparison and information.

Astma: symptoms and diagnosis

It is often underestimated and treated only in the acute phase or in the presence of evident symptoms. «It is essential instead to recognize it as one chronic pathology that requires accurate diagnosis and continuous therapeutic management– he underlines Stefania La GruttaPresident Simri -. It manifests itself with persistent cough, hissing breath, a sense of thoracic constriction and dyspnea, the so -called « air hunger ». However, the only evidence of the symptoms is not enough to formulate the diagnosis. An objective examination is required, spirometrywhich allows you to measure respiratory function and to establish the level of gravity of the disease. This test provides for the active collaboration of the child. Before school age, ascillometry can be usedwhich provides different but still valid and useful information ».

Asthma and lung development

«Each individual was born with his own heritage of pulmonary alveoli, which represents the potential for the development of respiratory function. However, some conditions, such as premature birth, exposure to smoking in pregnancy or neonatal complications, can reduce this potential -explains Grutta -. If asthma is not controlled, chronic inflammation can further compromise pulmonary developmentpreventing the achievement of the expected functional level. This can lead, over time, to a faster decline in respiratory function, as demonstrated by numerous studies. That’s why a personalized treatment, based on the severity of the disease and respiratory function. The goal is to achieve and maintain clinical control, avoid exacerbations and ensure adequate growth of the pulmonary function. In this way, the child can lead a normal and serene life. The Theme of this year’s World Asma day is to make the inhalation treatments accessible to all. This message seems very far from us, since in Italy the disease is recognized and adequate welfare conditions are planned. But in some countries, especially those with low income, some drugs are not available ».

Adherence to therapy

Even in less severe cases, one is needed Therapy based on the association of bronchodilators and anti -inflammatory drugs. In the most serious cases, polytherapies are used and, if necessary, to the use of Biological drugs. «Adherence is a key element: it is usually maximum at the beginning, when the disease has just been diagnosed or during the re -establishment, but but It is destined to descend, in particular among teenagers – The Grutta continues -. In this age group, risk factors such as cigarette smoke and vaping of electronic devices are added to the failure to adhere to therapy. Furthermore, A recovery of symptoms can occur in girls in puberty, more frequently. The relationship with the doctor and empathy that the specialist manages to create with the patient is also fundamental for the periodic monitoring of therapy, to decide whether and when to reduce or modify it over time. Fortunately, current digital tools make the correct management of the treatment easier ».

Sport: Yes but with some precautions

Sport is not only allowed, but recommended. Many parents, however, out of fear, limit their children. Too many wrong ideas are circulating on childhood asthma: this can induce, on the one hand, Mom and dad to impose unjustified limitations to children and teenagers, preventing them from living peacefully, on the other, to neglect symptoms and therapies which exposes them to avoidable risks. «In children With well -controlled asthma, physical activity is good, it improves respiratory function and quality of life. It is important to adopt some precautions, such as gradual heating and, if necessary, the use of bronchodilators before the effort. The child’s preferences must be supported, However, avoiding extreme sports. Furthermore, Never do physical activity in the hours of greatest hot and Avoid outdoor sports in days with particularly polluted airthese conditions that increase the risk of asthmatic crises, « he concludes.