[Opinion] Spring Fine Dust Aggravates Respiratory Diseases in Children

Every year, the recurring phenomenon of fine dust in spring threatens children's health management. Especially children, who have relatively weaker immune systems, are constantly exposed to the risk of respiratory diseases such as laryngitis and bronchitis during the spring season.

SMG Yonsei Hospital, Jiyanghyun, Head of Pediatrics and Adolescents.

The larynx, located just below the pharynx, is a respiratory organ that humidifies inhaled air and filters out foreign substances. In other words, it acts as a filter that removes foreign particles from the air when breathing through the mouth and nose, but inflammation can occur due to inhalation of fine dust during this process.

Fine dust is generated mainly from burning fossil fuels such as coal and petroleum, as well as emissions from factories and automobiles. Among these, the smaller fine dust particles are extremely tiny, about 1/30 the thickness of a human hair. Therefore, they remain suspended in the atmosphere at a size invisible to the naked eye, penetrate the lungs through the respiratory tract, or move through blood vessels into the body, adversely affecting health.

Such fine dust is a risk factor that can cause inflammation, and since the laryngeal tissue itself is directly affected by external factors during breathing, it has a greater impact on the respiratory health of children who are vulnerable to air pollution.

When inflammation occurs in the larynx due to fine dust, children often experience greater discomfort because their airways are narrower compared to adults. Therefore, it is advisable to respond quickly if a child shows symptoms of laryngitis.

Early symptoms of laryngitis include a foreign body sensation and pain, followed by coughing, phlegm, and voice changes. If a child exhibits these symptoms, visiting a specialist at a hospital for appropriate treatment can be helpful.

To prevent respiratory diseases caused by fine dust, it is important to pay attention to weather forecasts. On days when fine dust concentration is high, it is best to avoid going outside and crowded places as much as possible. If going out is necessary, wearing a mask is essential to minimize damage caused by spring fine dust.

The recommended masks are those that meet the standards of the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, such as KF80 grade or higher, which can help block fine dust. Additionally, after returning home, it is advisable to wash well and change clothes worn outside. Also, paying attention to weather forecasts and practicing proper indoor ventilation, temperature, and humidity control can help prevent respiratory diseases in children.

Jiyanghyun, Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine Director, SMG Yonsei Hospital