LUNG DISEASE IN CHILDREN AND PHYSIOTHERAPY TREATMENT 

Research has shown that lung problems account for about one-quarter of all visits by children to a general practitioner. Many of these lung problems require Respiratory Physiotherapy interventions to improve and maintain the lung capacity of the growing child, which is imperative to the normal growth and development of the child. The main condition affecting children is asthma which is elaborated in this section.

CHILDHOOD ASTHMA 

Asthma is a condition that causes inflammation in the airways. It is the most common long-term condition in children. Asthma can start at any time of life but is likely to begin in childhood. Common symptoms of childhood asthma include:

•Wheeze

•Breathlessness

•Chest tightness

•Coughing 

Symptoms occur often at night or in the early morning. Sometimes symptoms can worsen over hours or minutes, leading to severe obstruction of the airways known as an asthma attack. Acute asthma is the most frequent cause of admission to hospital in children of all ages.

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

Exposure to smoking, either through a mother who smokes during pregnancy or once a baby is born, is known to increase the risk of asthma and poor lung function throughout childhood. Allergens such as house dust mites and animal hair can also contribute to the development of asthma. Approximately 60% of school-age children have allergies, particularly to animal dander, house dust mites, and molds, as well as plant pollens.

GENETIC FACTORS

Asthma and allergies have strong links with the genes inherited from parents.

EXERCISE

Exercise can also cause asthma exacerbations. This form of the condition is known as exercise-induced asthma. However, if exercise is managed properly, it can be a great benefit to help children manage their symptoms.

PREVENTION

Efforts to prevent childhood asthma include:•Avoiding exposure to tobacco smoke•Reducing exposure to allergens, such as dust mites and animal fur•Asthma education and helping children and parents take necessary precautionsSome drugs, such as antihistamines and anti-inflammatory drugs, may help prevent the condition or affect its long-term development but this is yet to be proven. Asthma care involves more than just drugs. Participation in activity and exercise is very important in childhood asthma and is encouraged.

RESPIRATORY PHYSIOTHERAPY IN ASTHMA

It is very important for the exercises to be specific to the child’s needs and they should be fun to perform, to ensure maximum participation of the child. Few activities mentioned below help in improving the lung capacity and the overall strength and endurance of the child.

1. Inspiratory and expiratory exercises   

2. Postural Drainage techniques        

3. Thoracic expansion exercises        

4. Exercises for improving Heart and lungs strength and endurance                  

5. Teaching proper use of Metered Dose Inhalers        

6. Nebulization     

Many other exercises can be incorporated according to the need and the progress of the Child. Exercises are prescribed after a thorough examination of the child. There needs to be active participation of the parents or guardians in performing the exercises with the children to ensure that the exercises are supervised at home by the parents and to facilitate compliance.