Common triggers in India include: • House dust mites • Pollution and vehicle smoke • Seasonal pollen • Mosquito coils & incense sticks

Look for: • Frequent coughing (especially at night or early morning) • Wheezing • Chest tightness • Shortness of breath • Cough after playing, laughing, or crying • Pet dander • Weather changes • Viral infections • Cockroach allergens

There is no permanent cure, but with proper treatment most children lead completely normal lives and outgrow symptoms as their lungs mature.

Yes. Inhalers with a spacer + mask deliver medicine directly to the lungs using much smaller doses than syrups or tablets — making them safer and more effective.

No. Inhalers are not addictive and are recommended by all international and Indian medical guidelines (IAP, GINA).

Follow the Asthma Action Plan given by your doctor: • Give the reliever inhaler (usually salbutamol) • Keep the child calm and upright • Repeat dose as per your plan • Go to the ER if symptoms do not improve within 20 minutes

Yes. With well-controlled asthma, children can do all activities — even competitive sports. Many athletes, including Olympic players, have asthma.

• Winter pollution • Damp monsoon months (fungus & humidity) • Sudden temperature changes • Viral infections (common year-round in India)

Yes. Air Quality Index (AQI) apps can alert you on high pollution days. On poor AQI days: • Avoid outdoor play • Use masks if going out • Keep windows closed

No. Steam may soothe nasal congestion but does not help asthma and can be dangerous for small children due to burn risk.

• Dust mite allergy • Food allergies (milk, egg, peanut, wheat, soy) • Allergic rhinitis (sneezing, runny nose) • Eczema • Asthma triggered by allergy • Allergy to mosquito coil or incense smoke

Allergies can be diagnosed by: • Skin prick test • IgE blood test • Elimination diet (for food allergies) • Environmental assessment

It’s impossible to avoid dust in Indian homes completely, but you can reduce exposure by: • Wet mopping instead of dry sweeping • Washing curtains/soft toys regularly • Using dust-proof mattress covers • Avoiding carpets • Not using incense sticks or smoke-based repellents

Yes. They produce smoke and chemicals that can trigger asthma and allergies. Use liquid electric repellents, mosquito nets, or non-smoke options instead.

The most common are: • Cow’s milk • Egg • Peanut • Tree nuts (cashew, almond) • Wheat • Soy • Fish

Many children outgrow milk and egg allergies. Peanut, tree nut, or fish allergies are less likely to be outgrown.

Avoid using herbal mixtures, kadhas, or strong spices for infants/small children — many can worsen gastritis or cause allergies. Always consult a pediatrician.

If your child is allergic to pet dander: • Avoid having furry pets indoors • Keep the pet out of the child’s bedroom • Bathe pets regularly • Use air purifiers

Avoid frequent over-the-counter antihistamines. They may cause drowsiness or hyperactivity in children. Long-term management should be guided by your doctor.

Yes. Children with eczema, allergic rhinitis, or food allergies have a higher chance of developing asthma — called the Allergic March.

Seek immediate help if your child has: • Difficulty breathing • Bluish lips • Severe wheezing • Swelling of face/lips • Continuous vomiting after food ingestion • Fainting episodes

Yes. For selected cases of dust, pollen, or mite allergies, allergy immunotherapy (oral or subcutaneous) can significantly reduce symptoms.