If you notice that your child is having some breathing issues, it is best to bring them in for a checkup right away. The sooner they can receive comprehensive pulmonary care, the better their prognosis for good heart health will be. You should reach out to a top-rated pediatric pulmonology in New York City with the important questions you wish to ask your child’s pulmonologist.
Important Questions to Ask Your Child’s Pulmonologist
Below, we’ll outline some important questions to ask your child’s pulmonologist during their first visit. Dr. Mayank Shukla is an award-winning pediatric asthma specialist who helps children with a wide range of respiratory problems.
1. Does My Child Have Asthma?
You know that your child is struggling, but you aren’t quite sure what they are struggling with. There are a number of causes that we will look to identify during our appointment. To find out whether or not your child is suffering from a long-term condition like asthma, you should take note of their symptoms. Make sure to let the doctor know if they are experiencing any of the following:
- Itchy neck, throat, or chest
- Wheezing or fatigue
- Chest tightness
- Non-stop coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Your child complains of migraines, headaches, or sinus pain
These are a few of the most alarming symptoms that should be addressed right away. Regardless of the severity of your child’s symptoms, it is crucial to get medical attention for them right away.
2. Does My Child Have Allergies?
Allergies are another common issue that we treat at our pediatric pulmonology office. Allergies can be seasonal or hereditary, meaning they can come from within or without. Some allergy triggers come from pollens and flowers that float through the air during the spring. Other triggers might exist in pet dander or even perfume. Whether your child is struggling with seasonal allergies or is experiencing severe symptoms in reaction to eating certain foods, you should look for allergy treatment right away.
3. What Treatments Does My Child Need?
Depending on what Dr. Shukla discovers during your child’s appointment, there are different types of treatments available. If your young loved one is struggling with asthma, Dr. Shukla will likely prescribe medicine and an inhaler. Inhalers are easy to use, but it is important that both you and your child know how to use them properly for the best effect.
If asthma has been ruled out, don’t worry. We test for many other pulmonary conditions, like allergies, bronchitis, COPD, insomnia, sleep apnea, and narcolepsy. We will create a unique treatment plan for your child so that they can start to breathe better right away. All of our treatments offer both immediate and long-term relief so your loved one has a great chance to improve their respiratory strength over time.
4. Do We Need an Emergency Plan?
Certain conditions, such as asthma or severe allergies, warrant a game plan. While there are plenty of things you can do to avoid an emergency as much as possible, it still may happen. The best thing you can do is be prepared so you can calm the situation down right away.
Dr. Shukla usually suggests an emergency plan for kids who are allergic to specific foods, pollens, or dangerous allergens. An EpiPen might be prescribed, which can be injected in the event of a life-threatening allergic reaction. Inhalers can be used as needed or prescribed as a daily dosage. Make sure you have our contact information and a travel route so you can get to us right away!
5. How Do I Sign Up for My First Appointment?
If your child is coughing, wheezing, or struggling to breathe, then you know something might be wrong. Be sure to get in touch with your asthma doctor for top-notch pediatric lung care in New York right away. Your child’s health is too important to wait. Start a treatment plan now and ensure a healthy future for your young one.
