Asthma is a complex condition that can express itself in very different ways between individuals. Furthermore, asthma typically presents itself differently in adults and children, which is the foundation of pediatric pulmonology. Learning to recognize the unique symptoms of children’s asthma can make you and your child more prepared to deal with an asthma attack when it occurs. If you have a child with asthma, take a look at this guide, which can help you recognize the symptoms of asthma in children.
What Are the Symptoms of Asthma in Children?
Childhood asthma shares some of the same symptoms as adult asthma. That said, asthma in children has a few unique qualities that do not appear in adult asthma. Furthermore, asthma symptoms in children can vary heavily from child to child. Staying aware of these specifics can help you to become a responsible caretaker of any children with this condition. Keep an eye out for some of these common symptoms of childhood asthma:
- Low energy during outside time or play
- Coughing spells that occur when your child is playing or laughing
- Wheezing when your child breathes
- Chest retractions, which can be a sign that your child is struggling to breathe
- Irritability and mood swings
- Consistent weakness and tiredness
- Difficulty eating or breastfeeding
All of the above symptoms may become significantly worse during an asthma attack. Asthma attacks can come on slowly or rapidly, depending on your child’s specific asthma experience. Teaching yourself the signs of a severe asthma attack can help you in case of an emergency. Signs of a severe asthma attack are:
- High increase in respiratory rate
- Rapid onset shortness of breath
- The face or fingernails turning pale or blue
- Difficulty speaking
- Serious difficulty with breathing
Causes of Childhood Asthma
There are many different causes of childhood asthma. Childhood asthma often develops during childhood when your child’s immune system is still in its development stage. Some of the following factors can contribute to the development of childhood asthma:
- Allergens: Allergens have the potential to impact the development of asthma later in life.
- Genetics: Your biological family medical history can impact the potential for your child to develop asthma.
- Viral infections: Catching a viral infection at a young age can lead a child to develop asthma.
In addition, there are various environmental risk factors that can contribute to the development of asthma in a child. Such hazards include:
- Exposure to tobacco smoke from a young age
- Living in an area with high amounts of pollution
- Improper diet or inadequate levels of exercise
Diagnosing Childhood Asthma
There are several tests available that can help a physician determine whether your child is developing asthma. The more commonly employed tests include:
- Chest X-rays: Your child’s provider may decide to take an X-ray to create an image of the lungs. An x-ray can help to confirm whether the condition causing discomfort is asthma or some other medical condition.
- Allergy skin testing and blood tests: These tests can help identify what allergens might be triggering a reaction from your child’s immune system.
- Pulmonary functions tests: These tests measure the amount of air in your child’s lungs. These tests are an effective way to determine the severity of your child’s asthma.
Treating Childhood Asthma
Because every case of asthma is unique, you and your physician will need to work together to create an asthma action plan based on your child’s specific asthma case. Some elements to consider when creating this plan will include:
- Your child’s relationship with asthma medication and how often they should use it
- What to do in case your child’s asthma gets worse
- When to see out emergency care
Making sure that you have a comprehensive understanding of this plan can ensure that you are as prepared as possible in the case of an asthma emergency. Having this knowledge can prove life-saving.
Your Resource for Asthma in NYC
Dr. Mayank Shukla is an asthma specialist based in New York City. If you are interested in discussing your child’s asthma with Dr. Shukla, do not hesitate to call his office.
