My Daughter has Asthma

[nsmile124231]

My 6 year old Daughter has been suffering from Asthma since she was 2 year old, an asthma attack is always brought on from having a cold or flu, she's currently poorly and today has been prescribed the usual steroid tablets and anti-biotics, she hasn't been admitted to hospital for a year but seems to be suffering with this every month at the moment arg! I feel helpless and upset for my Daughter's going through this all the time. Recently we've noticed her become aggressive maybe its the steroids or being unwell most of the time. Does anyone have experience with this? Also my Husband is pushing for our Daughter to have a Macrobiotic diet, does anyone have experience with particular diets to help flu sufferers with asthma,

have they worked?

[ChrissieMons]

I doubt if the steroids are making her upset - and unless she has food allergies and a Doctor and a qualified dietician recommend it, I should keep to a normal diet. Being ill, especially when you go through a phase with one infection after another is depressing, even for a 6 year old. A positive attitude from her parents is the best thing. I know it is a huge worry, but parents have to be strong and confident when their children really are not. I'm sure she will get better, and having things to look forward to, finding things to laugh at and seeing her friends can all help. You might talk to her teacher as well, as children who miss a lot of school through illness also miss out on the social side of school. If you can find other children in her class who have asthma, you may find talking to their parents can help.

[Hidden]

This is how I was for most of my life, from a baby to 30ish. I discovered by chance I was allergic to house dust mites, since I have sorted my house to be virtually house dust mite free colds dont really affect me very much.

Im not saying it would be dust mites but she may have an allergy and the cold exacerbates the asthma massively.

[clareasthma]

Having brought up two children, who are now 26/30, I am of the mind that a macrobiotic diet is no good for such a young child. Better to get referral to a professional dietician via asthma clinic at hospital and get some allergy tests done also. From personal experience having asthma myself, I believe in positive action during the healthy times, when my asthma is not an issue and I eat a more healthy diet, take more exercise and strengthen my immune system. It might sound stupid, I don't know, but when your child is feeling a bit better, I think fun swim sessions may help the lungs.... not my call, just an idea. I took up snorkling this year (I'm 61) and it really helped to improve my peak flow.

I think you also need a big hug and some encouragement for your continued efforts.