Monitoring Normal Health & Oxygen Levels in Children
Tracking a child's health is without a doubt the most important responsibility that parents have. This can be extremely stressful if the child is born with underlying conditions. Respiratory illnesses are amongst the health complications faced by young children and infants. According to the CDC, more than 6.2 million children in the U.S suffer from asthma, the most common chronic respiratory disease experienced worldwide.
Hence, keeping track of their oxygen levels is essential so that problems such as abnormal breathing, coughing, chest pain, phlegm build-up, and more can be identified and treated accordingly. Thanks to health monitors like the LOOKEE® Smart KidsO2™, parents can consistently track their child's oxygen levels and pulse rate, giving them peace of mind day and night!
Keeping Your Child's Lungs Healthy
Did you know that human lungs only fully mature between the ages of 20 to 25? Because of this, parents have to ensure that their child's lungs are protected and kept healthy so that they can develop properly. After all, healthier organs are at less risk of facing health complications down the line.
Don't Expose Them to Cigarette Smoke
Parents who smoke should not only make their children aware of the harmful effects that the bad habit may cause, but they should also be cautious of their children breathing in secondhand smoke. Studies show that it can inhibit lung development and weaken their immune system.
Encourage Physical Activities
One of the best sports to keep the lungs healthy, often recommended for children with asthma, is swimming. This is because it helps improve the body's lung capacity and endurance. However, any sport is sure to help keep the body fit and support lung strength, so parents should encourage their kids to take part in those that they enjoy regularly.
Reduce Risks of Infection
A strong immune system is well-prepared to deal with illnesses and prevent them from severely damaging the body. When it comes to respiratory diseases, especially the Coronavirus, parents have to do all they can to minimize any health risks. This includes making sure their children exercise regularly, have a nutritious diet, and take vaccinations to protect against these diseases.
Closely Monitor Diseases
Having an oxygen monitor can come in handy when looking after a sick child. The LOOKEE® Smart KidsO2™ accurately tracks a child's oxygen levels and heart rate throughout the day. When these stats drop below normal levels, an alarm will go off to alert the parents. The device also comes with a built-in phone app to record these stats so that they can be shown to a medical professional. Now, parents can have peace of mind knowing their child is in safe hands with the LOOKEE® Smart KidsO2™ Sleep & Activity Oxygen Monitor.
Common Childhood Respiratory Conditions
Respiratory diseases are generally caused by viral or bacterial infections that can occur in any part of the airway. They are contracted via the eyes, nose, and/or mouth. Common respiratory infections include:
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic condition that occurs when the airways become swollen and narrowed. It can cause wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Severe asthma attacks can be fatal without treatment.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is a form of acute respiratory infection that affects the lungs. When babies have pneumonia, they experience pain in their lungs, limiting their oxygen intake. It can become severe if not treated properly.
Bronchiolitis
Bronchiolitis is a common lung infection in young children and infants. It causes inflammation and congestion in the small airways of the lungs. Bronchiolitis is almost always caused by a viral infection and is most common during the winter season.
Sinusitis
Sinusitis is a condition in which the cavities around the nasal passages become inflamed.
Acute Sinusitis
It can be triggered by a cold or allergies, however, it may resolve itself and doesn't require immediate medical attention.
Chronic Sinusitis
Chronic sinusitis differs in that it is more severe, lasting up to eight weeks.
When to take your child to the doctor:
Infants often get a noisy or chesty cough when they catch a cold. However, if breathing problems occur longer than ten days, you should consult a healthcare professional. You should also go to the doctor if your child:
- Has a fever for 24 hours or more with no signs of infection.
- Is showing signs of dehydration.
- Coughs up blood or mucus.
- Is becoming more breathless than usual after activities.
- Has been coughing continuously for more than 3-4 weeks.
- Already has a diagnosed lung condition - and also has symptoms of infection.
Reference List:
The Global Impact of Respiratory Disease:
https://www.who.int/gard/publications/The_Global_Impact_of_Respiratory_Disease.pdf
Chronic respiratory diseases:
https://www.who.int/health-topics/chronic-respiratory-diseases#tab=tab_1
How to Keep Your Child’s Lungs Healthy?
https://www.drmarkrosenthal.com/blog/how-to-keep-your-childs-lungs-healthy/
7 common childhood respiratory diseases:
https://www.choc.org/news/7-common-respiratory-diseases/
Lung disease in children:
https://europeanlung.org/en/information-hub/lung-conditions/lung-disease-in-children/
Health Effects of Secondhand Smoke:
Boost Your Lung Health with Swimming: