Dr. Lloyd Takao focuses on treating asthma in his solo pediatric practice in Orinda, California. As someone who also has asthma, Lloyd Takao, MD, can empathize with the stress the condition causes.
Asthma is on the rise for American children. Since 1980, the number of reported cases in patients under 18 has doubled. This increase has occurred despite the presence of cleaner air and a reduction in smoking and second-hand smoke. Asthma is one of the leading causes of school absenteeism and a common reason in children for hospitalization due to respiratory distress.
Although asthma risk factors have been identified, more needs to be known to explain the rise. Having a weakened immune system plays a role, as does the possibility of inherited traits.
Some children develop airway problems at a young age. Typically, triggers cause lung and airway tissues to become swollen with mucus. These triggers include the common cold, tobacco smoke, and allergens such as pet dander, pollen, mold, and dust mites. Physical exertion and cold weather also make symptoms worse.
Other risk factors for asthma involve previous occurrences of food, skin, or hay fever allergies. If a family has a background of eczema, hives, or runny nose, the chances for asthma go up. A low birth weight or later obesity may also play a part, as can urban pollution. Finally, males are more likely than females to contract asthma.
Asthma is on the rise for American children. Since 1980, the number of reported cases in patients under 18 has doubled. This increase has occurred despite the presence of cleaner air and a reduction in smoking and second-hand smoke. Asthma is one of the leading causes of school absenteeism and a common reason in children for hospitalization due to respiratory distress.
Although asthma risk factors have been identified, more needs to be known to explain the rise. Having a weakened immune system plays a role, as does the possibility of inherited traits.
Some children develop airway problems at a young age. Typically, triggers cause lung and airway tissues to become swollen with mucus. These triggers include the common cold, tobacco smoke, and allergens such as pet dander, pollen, mold, and dust mites. Physical exertion and cold weather also make symptoms worse.
Other risk factors for asthma involve previous occurrences of food, skin, or hay fever allergies. If a family has a background of eczema, hives, or runny nose, the chances for asthma go up. A low birth weight or later obesity may also play a part, as can urban pollution. Finally, males are more likely than females to contract asthma.