The physical environment for babies and young children can both nurture and challenge their physiological competence during the early years of development. Even a healthy respiratory system can become vulnerable to an array of physical, chemical and biological stressors, including air pollutants, weather changes, microorganisms and allergens such as dust, pollen, mold, animal dander and house dust. Stressors may also include toxins such as second-hand cigarette smoke, insecticides, pesticides, or household cleaning agents and chemical off-gassing from building materials or carpeting.
Obstruction of lung Qi can manifest as an occasional restriction of the chest, weakening the body’s defenses. Obstructed lung Qi is generally differentiated into two patterns:
1. Excess type, due to a stagnation and/or reflux of lung Qi
2. Deficiency type, due to a depletion of Qi in the kidneys and spleen
Occasional coughing is almost always a manifestation of stagnant Qi that has been trapped in the chest and is unable to descend. What causes the Qi to become stuck may be occasional phlegm, dryness, cold or hot air, wind, physical strain and fatigue, emotional upset or exposure to environmental agents (external invasions).
If your child is experiencing any of the following, your practitioner might recommend Open Air:
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Coughing
- Sticky phlegm
- Dryness and discomfort of the chest and upper abdomen
There are certain circumstances requiring caution in determining if your child needs to go to the doctor’s office, however. If your child is experiencing any of the following, you should call your pediatrician:
- Extreme weakness, lethargy
- High fever (102° F or greater)
- Dehydration
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Next week’s post features Easy Going, an ideal formula for addressing irregularity, constipation, and other digestive issues!
* Article Source: Gentle Warriors Pediatric Formula Guide