Obesity rates have been increasing worldwide, especially in North America. Over the past few years, obesity rates have increased to the point that it costs around $14 billion in health expenses each year. The consequences of childhood obesity are numerous, but many wonder about the connection between obesity and asthma.
Does childhood obesity make asthma worse? Or is it the other way around? Here’s what you need to know.
Does Childhood Obesity Cause Asthma?
Studies have shown that there is an increased risk for asthma in children who are obese. (1) While the specific cause of obesity’s impact on asthma is currently unknown, we do know that too much weight can strain the body and lungs.
Managing Childhood Obesity
Even though the link between childhood obesity and asthma is unknown, doctors always advocate that children maintain an active lifestyle and maintain a healthy weight. A few common tips include:
- Daily exercise
- Outdoor activities such as going to the park, swimming, etc.
- Enrolling your child in a sport
- Encouraging family activities such as hiking, daily walks, etc
There are many ways to engage your children in exercise through fun activities. Identify which activities your child enjoys and try to make them a regular part of your life. An active lifestyle will help your child stay healthy and in shape.
Managing Asthma
If your child has asthma, they are not alone. Asthma is a common ailment in children, affecting around 6 million kids around the country. Thankfully, you or your child can manage asthma, and with the proper treatment plan, your child can live a normal life.
To help manage your child’s asthma, work with your healthcare professional to identify possible triggers. Things like pollen, pet hair, dust, exercise, and much more may bring on an asthma attack. Finding these triggers and learning to avoid them will help your child live each day without having to worry about their asthma holding them back.
Sources:
(1) Patel L.Y., Tsai H.Y., Hansen J.O., Chung T.Y., Whyte J.M., Matthay M.A., Feng Y.Q., Stapleton J.A.P. Evidence for Parental Obesity Preceding the Development of Asthma in Children
What is Aluna?
Aluna is an innovative, scientifically accurate, and portable spirometer cleared by the FDA.
This device and management program is designed to help adults and children, five years and up, monitor their lung function and take control of their respiratory health.
Aluna automatically tracks your FEV1% over time. You can also monitor your symptoms, medication, exercise, and environmental factors.
With the Aluna app, you can easily share your lung health data with your healthcare professional.
Aluna seeks to shed light on asthma and other lung diseases by providing accurate and reliable data for healthcare providers and patients.
Be sure to ask your healthcare professional about Aluna and how this device can benefit you.
