Homeopathy is considered a supportive option in managing asthmatic bronchitis in infants and children. It aims to support immunity, improve lung function, and help reduce airway inflammation, thereby easing cough and breathlessness. Children may experience fewer wheezing and coughing episodes, reduced severity of attacks, and a lower need for inhaled steroids and bronchodilators. Homeopathy and conventional medicines can be taken together when advised by a physician.

Some commonly indicated homeopathic medicines in the management of childhood asthma include Antimonium tartaricum, Kali carbonicum, Calcarea phosphorica, Thuja occidentalis, Medorrhinum, Tuberculinum, Arsenicum album, and Natrum sulphuricum. These medicines are prescribed based on individualized symptoms, genetic tendencies, sensitivity to environmental factors, and other constitutional characteristics.

Homeopathy offers a supportive scope in managing childhood asthma by helping reduce the frequency, duration, and intensity of recurrent colds, coughs, and asthma episodes. Cases detected early may respond faster, while chronic cases often require a longer treatment duration. Children generally tend to respond better than adults. However, long-term steroid use and genetically inherited asthma may increase the duration of homeopathic treatment and necessitate extended follow-up.

With over 40 years of experience, Life Force has managed more than 800 cases of childhood asthma. Many children in different stages of asthmatic bronchitis showed good clinical improvement with reduced episodes of colds, coughs, and asthma. This also supported their overall health and growth. Parents frequently shared positive treatment experiences, and improved symptom control helped many children reduce school absenteeism.

Childhood asthma often develops gradually, driven by long-term triggers that cause sensitization and chronic inflammation of the airways. This leads to excess mucus, recurrent colds and coughs, and narrowing of the bronchi, resulting in breathlessness and wheezing. Atopy, a genetic tendency to produce IgE in response to airborne allergens, is commonly associated with asthma and contributes to these inflammatory reactions.

Childhood asthma may develop due to recurrent respiratory allergies, a strong family history of asthma, environmental pollution, and long-term exposure to cigarette smoke, including passive smoking before or after birth. Low birth weight and frequent intake of chilled drinks may also increase the risk. Genetics plays a significant role, especially when one or both parents have conditions such as asthma, eczema, or allergic rhinitis.

Symptoms of child asthma often begin with frequent colds and coughs, which tend to worsen at night. Wheezing, a high-pitched whistling sound during exhalation, is commonly observed. Children may experience breathlessness, chest discomfort, fatigue after activity, and reduced stamina. General weakness and shortness of breath, especially after exertion, are also typical features of this condition.

Major asthma triggers include:

• Smoke, pollution, and strong odors

• Dust, dust mites, and pollen (especially between March and May)

• Pet dander from dogs or cats

• Foods containing preservatives, and items such as eggs, peanuts, pistachios, canned foods, or fish

• Sudden weather changes, exposure to cold air, or rain

Child asthma is diagnosed through a detailed case history and physical examination, checking for wheezing and chest congestion. A chest X-ray helps assess lung condition or infection. Children above six may undergo spirometry to measure lung capacity and gauge severity. Blood tests, including CBC, eosinophil count, and IgE levels, help evaluate allergic tendencies and support the overall assessment.

Bronchodilators and anti-inflammatory drugs are the mainstays of modern medical prescription. Steroid inhalers are also administered to infants and children suffering from chronic cough and wheezing. However, children who are under 4 years of age are given a low dose of steroids through nebulizers. Other treatments like postural drainage (medical treatment in which the patient is placed in a slightly inverted position to promote the removal of cough) may be recommended as per the need.

Supportive measures for child asthma include identifying and avoiding food allergens such as nuts, preserved foods, soy, fish, milk, eggs, and wheat. A gluten-free and casein-free diet may help during treatment. Warm fluids can ease recurrent colds and coughs. Regular outdoor play supports lung capacity, except during severe episodes. Keep the environment dry, clean, and free from dust, pets, smoke, and strong odors. Good hygiene, warm baths, and adequate rest are also beneficial.