Asthma is a common chronic health condition that affects children all around the world. When your child is struggling with related symptoms, it can be alarming! The good news is that by learning more about the condition, its symptoms and triggers, and seeking treatment options, managing childhood asthma is achievable! Continue reading to learn more about childhood asthma and what you can do.
How Does Childhood Asthma Work?
Childhood asthma is a chronic respiratory condition in which the airways in the lungs become inflamed and narrow, making it more difficult to breathe. This is a common condition in children, but the severity can vary significantly. For some children, ongoing management and treatments are necessary to prevent flare ups.
What Are the Symptoms of Childhood Asthma?
Asthma brings about various unpleasant symptoms. Here are some of the most prominent ones.
- Wheezing and whistling sounds when exhaling
- Frequent coughing – especially during physical activity
- Shortness of breath and rapid breathing
- Chest tightness and discomfort
- Difficulty sleeping due to breathing challenges.
Not every child experiences every symptom, but it’s important to recognize them so you can bring them up with their pediatrician.
The Most Common Childhood Asthma Triggers
Asthma can result from various factors – both genetic and environmental. Here are some of the most common ones.
- Allergens: Pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander.
- Respiratory infections: Cold and flu.
- Exercise: Physical activity.
- Environmental: Pollution, smoke, strong smells, chemicals.
- Weather: Cold air, temperature changes, humidity.
What to Know About Managing Childhood Asthma
Childhood asthma can seem overwhelming, but there are some steps you can take every day to minimize risk and be ready to take action.
- Have an Action Plan: With your child’s pediatrician, make a list of steps to take depending on the severity of symptoms. This can range from daily management to handling emergencies. Have this ready to go and provide a copy with your child’s teachers, babysitter, and other caregivers.
- Minimize Triggers: By identifying your child’s triggers, you may be able to reduce some of their exposure. For example, if your child’s asthma is triggered by dust mites and pet dander, you can respond by washing their bed sheets more frequently and keeping pets away from their bedroom.
- Prescribed Medications: Your child’s pediatrician might prescribe them medications to prevent inflammation and/or relax airway muscles.
- Regular Follow-Up Visits: You should schedule routine checkups with your child’s pediatrician to monitor their asthma and make adjustments as needed.
Managing childhood asthma may seem overwhelming, but by learning more about it and taking the steps above, you can help to set your child up for success!
About the Author
Dr. Aaron Weiss earned his medical degree from the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine. Afterward, he completed a pediatric residency and neonatology fellowship at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. For more information or to schedule an appointment for your child in Orlando, visit his website or call (407) 584-7330.