Q: My son seems to be struggling more at school this year with his breathing. Is this common in the fall?
A: Fall is particularly difficult for those suffering with allergies and asthma. Chattanooga was recently ranked the fifth worst city in America for asthma sufferers. These rankings, performed by the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America, were based on several factors including pollen counts, medication utilization, air pollution and ozone levels.
Children at school are at increased risk of infections and cold viruses, which are the most common trigger for asthma attacks. Other potential exacerbants include ragweed allergy (hay fever) and exercise. Avoiding germs at school is nearly impossible, but parents should make sure their children get a seasonal flu shot. It is also important to teach your child how to properly wash his or her hands with soap and hand sanitizers, which can prevent the spread of infection.
Over 80% of asthmatics experience exercise- induced symptoms. If your child has difficulty breathing during or after exercise, see a board- certified allergist who can help you develop a treatment plan. Be sure to make sure teachers are aware of your child’s condition so that medications can be available at school.
Dr. Marc Cromie is an allergy and asthma expert with Chattanooga Allergy Clinic and a member of the Chattanooga- Hamilton County Medical Society.
Staff file photo / Dr. Marc Cromie