Pneumonia May Increase Chances of Asthma, Here’s How You Can Cut the Risk

Young people with respiratory tract infections like cold and pneumonia may be at an increased risk of developing asthma and weak lung function in later life, as per a new study. According to the findings presented at the European Respiratory Society Internal Congress, those who had upper respiratory infections, such as cold, sinusitis, tonsillitis, laryngitis and otitis by the age of five years, had a 1.5 fold increased chance of developing asthma in later life.

"These findings support the hypothesis that early-life respiratory tract infections may influence the development of respiratory illnesses in the longer term," said Evelien Van Meel from Erasmus MC University Medical Centre, The Netherlands. "In particular, lower respiratory tract infections in early life seem to have the greatest adverse effect on lung function and the risk of asthma," Van Meel said.

The study was conducted on 1,54, 492 children. The researchers analysed data from 37 groups of children from several European countries who were born between 1989 and 2013. Children were included in this analysis if data were available on respiratory tract infections in early life, and childhood lung function and/or asthma. The length of follow-up varied between groups, but ranged from birth until the age of four to 15 years.

Here are some foods that can prevent pneumonia in youngsters and elderly-

1. Garlic

Garlic has antimicrobial properties that fight bacteria, viruses and fungi. It also helps in bringing down body temperature.

2. Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds have the ability to expel phlegm, as they act as natural expectorant. Boil one tablespoon of sesame seeds in a cup of water, strain the water and drink regularly.

3. Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek has mucolytic properties, which helps relieve congestion. It also induces sweating that reduces fever and helps remove toxins from the body.

4. Cayenne Pepper

Due to the presence of high capsaicin content, cayenne pepper makes for a great ingredient for stimulating the release of mucous accumulated in the respiratory tracts.

With Inputs from IANS