Does your kid have asthma? This one's for you.

Thanks to our brand partner, Asthma Australia

We Aussies really have it made in the shade. Warm summer nights that drift into gloriously sunny days, world-class beaches and arguably some of the cutest native animals (have you seen a quokka up close?).

But unfortunately, alongside these iconic Aussie treasures, we also contend with snakes, bindies and a notably high prevalence of asthma, thanks to our unique mix of environmental and climatic factors.

Recent government stats estimate that close to 2.8 million of us are living with asthma nationwide. And notably, 27 per cent of Aussies with asthma aged 40 and under are considered to have poor control over the condition.

It can affect anyone, but it's particularly challenging for kids due to their smaller airways, where even subtle changes can cause breathing problems.

As parents, the best thing we can do is to create the safest and most loving environment for our little ones to thrive.

So, if you or your kids are living with asthma, these are just three things that can go a long way to making your home more asthma-friendly.

1. Rethink gas. 

There is a very common and invisible asthma trigger sitting in the kitchens of almost half of Australian homes. The use of gas to power cooktops and heaters is a major contributor of indoor, asthma-triggering, airborne pollutants.

Contaminants such as nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter are released each time we chuck a frypan on the burner. When inhaled, these pollutants can do a number on our airways.

The evidence for this one is worrying. Research indicates that cooking with gas can increase the chance of a kid having asthma by 32 per cent.

This is because cooking with gas prompts the release of pollutants that can enter our airways, causing inflammation that exacerbates asthma symptoms including breathlessness, wheezing, chest tightness and coughing.

If possible, the switch to an electric system like an induction cooktop can make a big difference. In fact, replacing all gas appliances with efficient electric alternatives is a great long-term goal, leading to a healthier, more energy-efficient (and environmentally friendly) household.

Of course, replacing your cooktop can be an expensive undertaking. If you can't replace your current cooktop at the moment, a portable induction cooktop can be a great start. 

If you can't make the switch, don't panic. There are a few steps you can take to minimise the impact on the whole household. The first is to always, always use the rangehood when cooking on the cooktop to reduce pollution.

The second is to cook with open windows nearby, encouraging the pollutants to show themselves out. 

These are excellent practices regardless of how you cook, because many types of cooking can release indoor air pollutants.

2. Optimise ventilation. 

Good airflow can reduce the impact of smoke or emissions that might circulate within the home. Smoke, gas emissions, mould and dust mites are all common causes of asthma flare-ups. Therefore, keeping your home well-ventilated is essential.

You know that moment when you gaze at the ceiling while showering and see those small blue-green spots of mould forming? Take that as a sign that you need to step up your bathroom ventilation game. Wet areas are prime spots for mould buildup, and, as you guessed it — mould is a significant asthma trigger (and an all-round health hazard!).

To prevent mould before it starts, ensure you have functioning exhaust fans with regularly cleaned filters in all bathrooms, as well as in your laundry and kitchen.

Additionally, be sure to clean and service air conditioner filters, and, if your budget allows, consider investing in an air purifier with a HEPA filter to further assist the process.

3. Know your kid's household triggers.

Asthma will look different from person to person. If you're living with someone who has asthma, it's important for everyone in the household to learn their unique triggers. 

Some of the most common asthma triggers include:

• Smoke.
• Mould.
• Dust mites.
• Strong fragrances.
• Pet dander.

Of course, there's a lot within our kids' lives that we can't control. But we can minimise many of the known triggers they're regularly exposed to at home.

Here are some steps you can take:

• Maintaining a home that is free of smoke, including cigarettes and fireplaces.
• Vacuum regularly (ideally with a HEPA filter).
• Dusting with a damp cloth to trap dust rather than simply stirring it up.
• Regularly washing your bedding and soft toys in hot water.
• Cleaning curtains and carpets regularly.
• Prioritising fresh air and keeping fragrances out of the house. These can come from strong perfumes, cleaning products, other personal care products, scented candles and even incense.
• Preventing mould within the home, and if you spot any, immediately removing it. Just be sure to ask someone without asthma to help you out.

For more information, head to Asthma Australia's website.

This information is general in nature and does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. As with any medical condition, always seek health advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Feature Image: Getty.

Asthma Australia is the nation's peak body representing the nearly 2.8 million Australians living with asthma. Sadly, asthma claims a life each day in Australia and is the number one health condition burdening Aussie kids. In 2022-23, over 31,000 people were hospitalised due to asthma, yet more than 90% of these hospitalisations were potentially preventable. There is no cure yet, but Asthma Australia is here to help. Asthma Australia offers information, education and free phone support to people living with asthma and their families.