Inhaled Steroids for Asthma and Their Deadly Side Effects

How Can Parents Breathe Easier when Their Kids Have Asthma?

If you have a young child who suffers from asthma, you will want to read this article. Asthma is the most common chronic illness effecting children; in fact, one-third of those diagnosed are children under 18. It is the third most common reason for hospitalization of children. Not only that, but nearly 14 million days of school are missed each year due to asthma-related illnesses. Did you know that when it comes to asthma, more boys are affected than girls?

What exactly is an asthma attack? First of all, minor symptoms could include: coughing, tightness of the chest, slight wheezing, and shortness of breath. However, when your child is exposed to what actually "triggers" his asthma, the symptoms worsen. Your child is then having an asthma attack. During an asthma attack, the muscles surrounding the airways constrict. They become inflamed as the airway tightens, making it more difficult for air to travel to and from the lungs. This is called broncho-constriction.

So, what is the western medical industry doing about this chronic illness? Most doctors will recommend your child be placed on a propellant inhaler for attacks. These do not contain measureable amounts of steroids. However, your doctor may also suggest putting your child on inhaled steroids for preventing those attacks. Now these are not the kind that help someone break homerun records. Still, what you may or may not know could harm your child, or possibly kill him.

My son's doctor recommended inhaled steroids. I did some research and discovered that these medications have quite a few side effects. First of all, my research showed that asthma may be due to hormonal imbalances (see: http://www.drplatt.com). Steroidal inhalants are known to depress the endocrine system, adrenals and pituitary gland - doesn't sound like a good combination. Other major long-term side effects might include: osteoporosis, hypercorticism, glaucoma, cataracts, and Candida. Are these long-term possibilities worth the risk for your child?