What is asthma?
A common chronic condition among children, asthma affects the airways that are responsible for getting air in and out of your lungs. When asthma develops, these airways become inflamed, swollen, and constricted. This can make breathing very difficult.
Does asthma have triggers?
Yes. Medical experts aren’t clear as to why some children are more likely to develop asthma than others, but family history of asthma may play a role. Pediatricians find that several factors can trigger asthma and lead to debilitating asthma attacks.
Common asthma triggers include:
- Secondhand smoke
- Respiratory infections (common cold)
- Physical activity (exercise-induced asthma)
- Airborne allergens like dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander
For some children, certain food preservatives can be problematic, including additives in dried fruit and processed potatoes.
What are the symptoms of asthma?
Asthma leads to a wide variety of symptoms that may vary between asthma attacks. Asthma symptoms should never be taken lightly. Warning signs of asthma issues include:
- Coughing fits
- Chest tightness or breathlessness
- Wheezing or whistling while exhaling
- Difficulty sleeping because of breathing issues
Asthma is often a life-long condition, so it’s important to come in to Camp Creek Pediatrics as soon as your child starts experiencing symptoms to get started on a management plan. Dr. Johnson conducts comprehensive testing to get to the root of your child’s asthma, which may include spirometry or a peak flow breathing test, or even allergy testing.
How does a pediatrician treat asthma?
Treating asthma often involves medications to manage asthma attacks and lessen their severity, as well as to prevent attacks.
Beneficial asthma medications and treatments include:
- Long-term asthma control medications
- Quick-relief or rescue medications
- Antihistamine medications
- Immunotherapy (allergy shots)
Lifestyle changes are also necessary. Dr. Johnson spends time counseling you and your child about potential asthma triggers so you can learn how to avoid them and how to lessen the severity of an asthma attack when one does occur.
If your child needs help managing their asthma, the team at Camp Creek Pediatrics provides comprehensive care. Click on the online scheduling tool or call the office to book your child’s asthma exam today.
