For millions of parents worldwide, the sound of their child’s wheezing and struggling to breathe is all too familiar. Asthma, a chronic lung condition that affects over 4.6 million children in the United States alone, can be a constant source of worry and stress for families. From the daily management of symptoms to the fear of potential asthma attacks, this condition can significantly impact a child’s quality of life and limit their ability to engage in normal activities.
Conventional wisdom often presents asthma as a lifelong condition that cannot be cured, only managed through the use of inhalers, steroids, and other medications. However, this view overlooks the potential for asthma remission and natural improvement when the root causes of the condition are addressed.
We offer a unique perspective on asthma, one that focuses on the underlying neurological and Autonomic Nervous System dysfunction that can contribute to the development and persistence of asthma symptoms. By understanding the factors that can lead to chronic health issues in children, we aim to provide families with hope, answers, and drug-free solutions to help their children achieve optimal health and well-being.
In this article, we will explore the concept of asthma remission, the factors that influence the likelihood of ‘outgrowing’ asthma, and the importance of addressing the condition from a drug-free, Neurologically-Focused perspective. We will also provide practical tips and insights to help families manage their child’s asthma naturally and effectively, with the ultimate goal of reducing symptoms and improving overall quality of life.
Understanding Asthma
Asthma is a chronic lung condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to breathing difficulties. When a person with asthma encounters a trigger, such as allergens, cold air, or physical activity, their airways become swollen and produce excess mucus, making it difficult for air to pass through. This results in the hallmark signs of asthma, including wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and coughing.
There are several types of asthma, each with its own unique characteristics and triggers:
- Intermittent asthma: Signs occur less than twice a week and do not interfere with daily activities.
- Persistent asthma: Signs occur more than twice a week and may interfere with daily activities. Persistent asthma can be further classified as mild, moderate, or severe.
- Allergic asthma: Triggered by allergens such as pollen, pet dander, or dust mites.
- Non-allergic asthma: Triggered by factors such as stress, cold air, or respiratory infections.
- Exercise-induced asthma: Triggered by physical activity.
- Occupational asthma: Triggered by workplace irritants such as chemicals or dust.
The severity of asthma symptoms can vary from person to person and may change over time. Some children may experience mild symptoms that are easily managed, while others may have severe, life-threatening asthma attacks that require immediate medical attention.
Conventional asthma care typically involves inhaled medications, such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids, to relax the airways and reduce inflammation. Bronchodilators, such as short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) and long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs), work as a quick relief of symptoms by relaxing the muscles around the airways. Corticosteroids, on the other hand, work to reduce inflammation in the airways over time, helping to prevent asthma attacks and improve long-term control of the condition.
While these medications can be effective in managing asthma symptoms, they do not address the underlying causes of the condition and may come with unwanted side effects, such as jitteriness, headaches, and oral thrush. Additionally, relying solely on medication to control asthma symptoms may not be sufficient for all children, particularly those with severe or difficult-to-control asthma.
Long-term use of corticosteroids, even when inhaled, can also have significant consequences, including slowed growth, decreased bone density, weight gain, increased risk of infections, adrenal suppression, and potential impacts on mood and energy levels. While these medications can be life-saving when used appropriately, it’s important for families to understand the risks and explore complementary strategies that support the child’s overall health and long-term respiratory resilience.
Can You Grow Out of Asthma?
For parents of children with asthma, the question “Does asthma get worse with age?” is a common and pressing concern. The concept of asthma remission offers hope for many families, as it suggests that the burden of asthma may lessen over time.
Asthma remission is defined as a significant reduction in asthma symptoms and the need for medication. There are two types of remission:
- Symptomatic remission: This occurs when a person experiences a decrease in asthma symptoms but may still have underlying airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness.
- Complete remission: This is a rare occurrence where a person no longer experiences asthma symptoms and has normal lung function without the need for medication.
Several factors can influence the likelihood of a child experiencing asthma remission:
- Age of onset: Children who develop asthma later in childhood or adolescence are more likely to experience remission than those who develop asthma as infants or young children.
- Asthma severity: Children with mild to moderate asthma are more likely to experience remission than those with severe asthma.
- Allergies and other risk factors: Children with fewer allergies and other risk factors, such as eczema or a family history of asthma, are more likely to experience remission.
- Overall health and lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco smoke can improve the chances of asthma remission.
While some children may experience a significant reduction in asthma symptoms as they grow older, it is essential to understand that asthma is generally considered to be a lifelong condition. Even if a child experiences remission, there is always the potential for asthma symptoms to resurface later in life. Triggers such as respiratory infections, allergies, stress, and environmental factors can cause asthma to come back, even after years of remission.
As such, it is crucial for parents and children to remain vigilant and proactive in managing asthma, even if symptoms have subsided. This includes regular check-ups with a healthcare provider, monitoring for potential triggers, and having an asthma action plan in place to quickly address any recurrence of signs. By staying informed and prepared, families can better navigate the challenges of asthma and work towards the best possible outcomes for their children.
The “Perfect Storm”: Factors Contributing to Asthma
For over a century, chiropractors have educated patients about what we call the “3Ts” – trauma, toxins, and thoughts. This framework helps us understand how various environmental and life stressors accumulate to impact respiratory health and trigger asthma symptoms. For children with asthma, these stressors directly affect the nervous system’s ability to regulate airway function and immune responses.
Neurologically-Focused Chiropractors examine how these physical, chemical, and emotional stressors lead to an overstressed, imbalanced, and dysregulated nervous system. While everyone encounters physical injuries, toxic exposures, and emotional stress throughout life, asthma often develops when these 3Ts appear early, frequently, and intensively during critical developmental periods.
A single physical trauma, exposure to environmental toxins, or stressful event alone is not as likely to trigger asthma. However, when a child experiences multiple stressors during crucial developmental periods, their nervous system’s ability to adapt and overcome these challenges becomes suppressed and dysfunctional. This is particularly true for children who experience birth trauma/intervention, frequent early antibiotic use or toxin exposure, and high stress environments – all key components of the “Perfect Storm” that often precedes asthma development.
This decreased resilience and limited adaptability create the perfect conditions for asthma to develop. When the nervous system becomes overwhelmed and dysregulated, it shifts into sympathetic “fight or flight” overdrive. This state triggers increased inflammation, hypersensitive immune responses, and bronchial constriction – all hallmark features of asthma.
For parents of children with asthma, understanding the role of chronic stress, the 3Ts, and nervous system dysregulation is crucial because both sides of the healing equation must be addressed:
- First, we must heal and repair any damage to the nervous system. Subluxation and nervous system dysregulation often create a vicious cycle of sympathetic dominance, leading to increased respiratory inflammation and reactivity. Neurologically-focused chiropractic adjustments first release this stuck stress pattern, then work to restore optimal neurological function and balance.
- Second, while we can’t erase past traumas or stressors that contributed to asthma development, we can support more effective healing by addressing current physical, chemical, and emotional well-being. This includes reducing exposure to common asthma triggers and environmental toxins that can further stimulate an already overactive immune response.
Fortunately, more parents are recognizing how environmental toxins impact their children’s respiratory health. For inflammatory conditions like asthma, it’s especially important to minimize exposure to air pollutants, harsh cleaning chemicals, and other environmental triggers that can stimulate an already overstressed sympathetic nervous system and inflammatory response.
If you suspect the 3Ts have contributed to your child’s asthma, focus on these key action steps:
- Reduce exposure to environmental triggers and pro-inflammatory toxins, particularly indoor air pollutants and harsh cleaning products
- Support nervous system function and regulation through Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care to help restore proper communication between the brain and respiratory system
Remember that just as asthma develops over time through accumulated stress and nervous system dysfunction, healing through natural and neurological approaches also requires patience and consistency. By addressing both the nervous system dysfunction and environmental factors, many families find they can reduce their reliance on asthma medications and better manage their child’s respiratory health naturally.
Addressing Asthma from a Neurological Perspective
At the heart of the PX Docs approach to asthma care is a deep understanding of the role the nervous system plays in regulating respiratory function and overall health. In particular, we focus on the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS), which consists of two branches: the Sympathetic Nervous System, responsible for the “fight or flight” response, and the Parasympathetic Nervous System, which promotes “rest, regulate, and digest.”
Imbalances in the ANS, often caused by the “Perfect Storm” of stressors discussed earlier, can contribute to the development and persistence of asthma symptoms. When the Sympathetic Nervous System is overactive, it can lead to chronic inflammation, constriction of the airways, and heightened sensitivity to triggers. On the other hand, an underactive Parasympathetic Nervous System can make it more difficult for the body to relax and recover from asthma attacks.
One of the key components of the Parasympathetic Nervous System is the vagus nerve, which plays a crucial role in regulating respiratory function, immune response, and overall health. Vagus nerve dysfunction has been linked to a wide range of health issues, including high blood pressure, increased heart rate, asthma, and gastrointestinal conditions. By addressing vagus nerve dysfunction and promoting balance in the ANS, we have helped children with asthma experience fewer symptoms, fewer asthma attacks, and better overall health.
This is where Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care comes in. Our approach focuses on identifying and addressing subluxation, which shifts the nervous system into that sympathetic dominant state caused by physical, emotional, or chemical stressors. Addressing subluxation helps restore balance to the ANS and supports the body’s natural healing abilities.
The benefits of Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care for children with asthma are numerous:
- Reduced inflammation and sensitivity to triggers
- Improved respiratory function and lung capacity
- Better sleep and overall well-being
- Fewer asthma attacks and less reliance on medication
- Enhanced immune function and resistance to illness
By managing the root causes of asthma from a neurological perspective, rather than simply treating symptoms with medication, we can help children develop long-term resilience and enjoy a higher quality of life. Our goal is to empower families with the knowledge and tools they need to take control of their child’s health and experience the transformative benefits of Neurologically-Focused Care.
Lifestyle and Natural Approaches to Managing Asthma
In addition to Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care, there are several lifestyle and natural approaches that can help children with asthma better manage their symptoms and improve overall health. These strategies focus on identifying and avoiding triggers, supporting gut health, managing stress, and promoting physical activity.
One of the most important steps in managing asthma is identifying and avoiding triggers. Common asthma triggers include:
- Allergens such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mold
- Irritants like cigarette smoke, air pollution, and strong odors
- Respiratory infections, including colds and flu
- Physical activity, particularly in cold, dry air
- Strong emotions and stress
By keeping a symptom diary and working with a healthcare provider, families can identify their child’s unique triggers and develop strategies to minimize exposure. This may involve making changes to the home environment, such as using hypoallergenic bedding or air purifiers, or adjusting daily routines to avoid peak allergen times.
Supporting gut health is another crucial aspect of managing asthma naturally. The gut microbiome plays a significant role in immune function and inflammation, and imbalances in gut bacteria have been linked to an increased risk of asthma and allergies. To promote a healthy gut microbiome, children should:
- Eat a nutrient-dense, whole-foods diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods
- Avoid processed foods, refined sugars, and artificial additives
- Consider probiotic supplements under the guidance of a healthcare provider
- Limit the use of antibiotics unless absolutely necessary
Stress management is also essential for children with asthma, as emotional stress can trigger signs and make the condition more difficult to control. Effective stress management techniques for children may include:
- Deep breathing exercises and relaxation techniques
- Mindfulness and meditation practices
- Regular physical activity and outdoor play
- Creative outlets such as art, music, or journaling
Finally, incorporating regular physical activity into a child’s routine has been shown to improve lung function, boost immune health, and reduce the frequency and severity of asthma symptoms. However, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider to develop an appropriate exercise plan and to take necessary precautions, such as using pre-exercise bronchodilators or avoiding outdoor activities during peak allergen times.
The Importance of Ongoing Asthma Management
While the goal of Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care and natural approaches to asthma management is to reduce symptoms and promote long-term health, it’s important to recognize that asthma is a chronic condition that requires ongoing attention and care. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider, along with consistent symptom monitoring and care plan adjustments, are essential for keeping asthma under control and preventing complications.
During regular check-ups, a healthcare provider can:
- Monitor lung function and identify any changes or concerns
- Provide guidance on lifestyle modifications and trigger avoidance
- Address any new or worsening signs
- Offer support and resources for managing the emotional and social aspects of living with asthma
- Reassess medication needs and potential side effects to ensure the lowest effective dose is being used safely
As a parent, trust your gut and keep advocating for your child’s health. If you feel that something isn’t right — whether it’s medication side effects, dependency, or the lack of progress — don’t hesitate to speak up and ask questions. It’s okay to revisit treatment plans, discuss long-term implications with your provider, and find a new provider if needed. Your persistence and advocacy can make all the difference in helping your child find a path toward lasting relief and true healing.
In addition to regular check-ups, families should keep track of their child’s asthma signs, triggers, and medication use. This information can help healthcare providers make more informed decisions about care plans and can also empower families to take a more active role in managing their child’s health.
Empowering Families to Breathe Easier: A New Approach to Asthma Care
We understand the challenges and frustrations that come with managing childhood asthma. We know that families are looking for answers, hope, and a path to better health for their children. That’s why we’re committed to providing a new approach to asthma care—one that addresses the root causes of the condition and empowers families to take control of their child’s health.
While there is no cure for asthma, and not every child will experience complete remission, we believe that by addressing the underlying causes of the condition and supporting the body’s natural healing abilities, we can help children experience fewer signs, a better quality of life, and a brighter future.
We’ve seen firsthand many children, like Colton, take back their lives—greatly decreasing the frequency and duration of asthma struggles, reducing or even weaning off medications with their medical provider completely, and enjoying more freedom and health—all by addressing underlying nervous system dysregulation with their PX Docs.
If you’re a parent of a child with asthma and you’re looking for a drug-free approach to care, we invite you to visit our PX Docs directory to find a practitioner near you. Our trained and experienced chiropractors utilize state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, like the INSiGHT scans, to identify areas of neurological dysfunction and develop personalized care plans to support your child’s unique needs.
Together, we can help your child build resilience, overcome the challenges of asthma, and experience the joy and freedom of a healthy, active life. Your child’s best health awaits.
