When exposed to certain triggers, such as pollen or catching a cold or other respiratory infection, the lungs and airways of children with asthma become easily inflamed. When exposed to certain triggers, such as pollen or catching a cold or other respiratory infection, the lungs and airways of children with asthma become easily inflamed.
Childhood asthma is incurable, and symptoms can persist well into adulthood. However, with the right treatment, you and your child can manage symptoms and protect their developing lungs.
Common Symptoms for Childhood Asthma
●Coughing gets worse when your child has a virus, happens while he or she is sleeping, or is triggered by exercise or cold air.
●A whistling or wheezing sound when breathing out
●Shortness of breath
●Chest congestion or tightness
●Trouble sleeping due to shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing
●Bouts of coughing or wheezing that get worse with a cold or the flu
●Delayed recovery or bronchitis after a respiratory infection
●Trouble breathing that hampers play or exercise
●Fatigue, which can be due to poor sleep
Diagnosis
Treatment
Diagnosis
If your child suffers from asthma, he or she may say things like “my chest hurts” or “I’m always coughing.” When your child is sleeping, listen for coughing that may not wake him or her. Wheezing and Coughing can be triggered by crying, laughing, yelling, or other strong emotional reactions, as well as stress.
Treatment
Controlling your child’s asthma requires an asthma action plan. Keep it on hand to remind you of your child’s daily management plan and to assist you when your child is experiencing asthma symptoms. Give copies to your child’s caregivers, teachers, and even the bus driver so they’ll know what to do if he or she has an asthma attack while they’re away from home.