Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition of the lung airways resulting in episodic airflow obstruction. It is a major problem affecting all age groups of people of both genders and is considered as the most common chronic childhood disease, responsible for a significant proportion of school days lost. Also Asthma is the most frequent admitting diagnosis in children's hospitals.
This study intended to assess the socio-clinical profile of asthmatic Saudi children, and to evaluate the impact of asthma symptoms on their life style.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample of asthmatic children who follow up at Pediatric department out- patient clinics at two major hospitals in Riyadh city; Riyadh Medical Complex (RMC) Hospital and Prince Salman Hospital (PSH). Data was collected by direct interview of asthmatic children and their mothers.
Results
Out of the total 200 asthmatic children, 49% were students and 10% were supposed to be at school. 98% of asthmatic children were not able to enjoy holidays outside their homes and 97.5 % of them were not able to sleep well during asthma attacks. 99% of their mothers had limitations on their social life and 100% of employed mothers had frequent absences from their work.
Conclusion
This study pointed out the impact of bronchial asthma on the life style of asthmatic children and their mothers. Childhood asthma has significant adverse impact on a child's life style, daily activities, registering at school, school attendances, and even their mother's life.