Asthma

Overview

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that affects millions of children worldwide. It is a condition that causes the airways to become inflamed and constricted, making it difficult to breathe. Asthma can be a serious condition if not properly managed, but with the right treatment and care, children with asthma can lead active and healthy lives.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of asthma in children include:

  • Wheezing or a high-pitched sound while breathing out
  • Coughing, especially at night or during exercise
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Chest tightness or discomfort
  • Blue-tinged lips or fingers (in severe cases)

Causes

Asthma in children can be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including:

  • Family history of asthma or allergies
  • Exposure to allergens such as dust mites, pollen, or pet dander
  • Respiratory infections such as the common cold or flu
  • Air pollution or exposure to tobacco smoke
  • Obesity or being overweight

Diagnosis

To diagnose asthma in a child, a healthcare professional will typically perform a physical examination, take a medical history, and order diagnostic tests, such as:

  • Spirometry to measure lung function and detect any abnormalities
  • Peak flow meter to measure the child’s lung function at home
  • Allergy testing to identify any allergens that may be triggering symptoms
  • Chest X-ray to rule out other conditions that may be causing symptoms

Treatment Options

Treatment for asthma in children usually involves a combination of medications and lifestyle changes, including:

  • Inhaled corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and prevent symptoms
  • Bronchodilators to open up the airways and relieve symptoms
  • Leukotriene modifiers to reduce inflammation and prevent symptoms
  • Avoiding triggers such as allergens, tobacco smoke, and air pollution
  • Developing an asthma action plan to manage symptoms and prevent attacks

Patient Success Stories

At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we are committed to providing the best possible care for children with Asthma. Here’s why families trust us:

“Our son was diagnosed with asthma at a young age, and we were worried about how it would affect his life. But with the help of the team at Gertrude's Children's Hospital, we were able to develop a treatment plan that has allowed him to thrive and live a normal life.”

Emilyparent of a child with asthma

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic condition that causes inflammation and constriction of the airways, while bronchitis is an infection that inflames the airways.

You can prevent asthma attacks in your child by avoiding triggers, using medications as prescribed, and developing an asthma action plan.

While there is no cure for asthma, it can be well-managed with the right treatment and care. With proper management, children with asthma can lead active and healthy lives.

Contact Us

If you suspect that your child may have asthma, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with our pediatric pulmonologists. Our team is here to support you and your child every step of the way.

Contact us today to learn more about our Asthma treatment options.

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