Asthma in Children

Allergy shots

Reference Allergy shots (immunotherapy) may be recommended for children who have asthma symptoms when they are around substances to which they are allergic (allergens). Allergy shots have been shown to reduce asthma symptoms and the need for medicines in some people.^{Reference 23} But allergy shots are not equally effective for all allergens. Allergy shots should not be given when asthma is poorly controlled.

Opens New Window Allergies: Should I Take Allergy Shots? Opens New Window

Counseling

Research has shown that (in addition to taking medicine) family therapy, such as counseling, may be helpful to children who have asthma.^{Reference 24} In one small study, Reference peak expiratory flow and daytime wheezing improved in children who had therapy compared with those who didn't. Another small study found that children showed overall improvement from therapy.

Complementary and alternative treatments

A review of complementary and alternative treatments for treating asthma in children concluded that none have been proved to improve asthma symptoms and some may have harmful side effects.^{Reference 25} The therapies reviewed included:

• Herbal products such as ivy leaf, Reference butterbur, and Tylophora indica (T. indica).
• Dietary supplements such as fatty acids and Reference probiotics.
• Reference Homeopathy.
• Procedures such as Reference acupuncture, Reference massage therapy, Reference chiropractic, Reference osteopathy, Reference hypnosis, and Reference biofeedback.

Talk to your doctor before your child tries a complementary or alternative treatment.

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