New book explains distressing breathing problems of children

Why do infants make snorting sounds during feedings? Is snoring normal in a toddler? Is it safe to give popcorn to a 2-year-old? How many colds a year are normal for a 5-year-old? Does air quality in the home affect a child's respiratory system?

About 80 to 90 percent of children at one time or another experience breathing problems. In her new book, "Take a Deep Breath: Clear the Air for the Health of Your Child" (World Scientific Publishers), scheduled for publication in January 2012, Dr. Nina L. Shapiro, director of pediatric ear, nose and throat at Mattel Children's Hospital UCLA and an associate professor of surgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, explains all the puzzling and oftentimes distressing breathing patterns children have throughout development.

"We all take for granted the silent 'in and out' breathing until a problem arises," Shapiro said. "Based on my years of experience in treating tens of thousands children with breathing issues, I hope this guide will enlighten and empower parents on some of the most asked questions and concerns."

"Take a Deep Breath" sheds new light on the latest research in pediatric breathing issues, sleep issues, airway safety and the truth behind "clean, green" home environments. Shapiro addresses what actually happens when a child breathes, and she guides readers through the uppermost part of the breathing apparatus (the nose), down to the lowermost part (the lungs).

Each of the book's three age-based sections (newborn-3 months; 3 months-1 year; and 1 year-5 years) includes chapters that examine specific respiratory tract locations and potential problems for each age group and provides a "to-do" list offering successful preventions and treatments that can easily be done at home.

"'Take A Deep Breath' is a breath of fresh air for every parent and doctor who cares about children," said Dr. Nancy L. Snyderman, chief medical editor for NBC News. "Dr. Shapiro cuts through what we need to know and reassuringly tells us what we don't need to worry about. A must-read for every parent and grandparent."

Source: Mattel Children's Hospital UCLA