Recognizing the Signs of Asthma in Children: Symptoms Every Parent Should Know

Asthma is a medical condition that affects a patient's ability to breathe normally and comfortably. Since asthma affects 4.5 million children under the age of 18 in the United States according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, it’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms and get prompt treatment for your child. The pediatricians at Florida Pediatric Group in Melbourne & West Melbourne, FL, specialize in managing childhood asthma and can help.

Understanding Asthma

Asthma is a respiratory condition that causes swelling and inflammation of the breathing passages. It is often triggered by an allergic reaction that affects the throat and air passageways. Allergens affecting asthma could be anything from something in the air to a specific type of food. Some children have asthma attacks due to stressful circumstances or too much activity in a short period of time. In some cases, this common condition is genetic while in other cases it develops due to a child’s environment, such as growing up in a city with a high level of air pollution or being exposed to tobacco smoke.

Signs and Symptoms of Asthma in Children

The first and most urgent sign of asthma is the child’s inability to breathe or catch their breath. The patient may wheeze and gasp for air during an asthma attack. Other less obvious symptoms to look out for include:

• Loud or unusual breathing sounds.
• Lack of desire for physical activity or inability to do basic exercises, walking or running.
• Tightness or pain in the chest.
• Inability to sleep comfortably through the night.
• Elevated heart rate, even when not participating in exercise or sports.
• Increased or continuous anxiety.

Asthma Treatment Options

Modern asthma treatment options are available that can provide much-needed relief for your child. Your Melbourne & West Melbourne, FL, pediatrician can treat your child for asthma in one or more of the following ways:

• Prescription inhalers that provide instant relief by opening up the airways.
• Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), which manage inflammation in the airways on a daily basis.
• Allergy treatments, including immunotherapy and medications, to reduce the chance of flare-ups.
• Biologic infusions, which focus on reducing the swelling of airways in some patients.

Talk to Your Pediatrician

When you know the signs of possible asthma, you can get your child necessary treatments from a young age and prevent further health issues. Call (321) 752-5210 today to schedule an exam with a pediatrician who specializes in childhood asthma at Florida Pediatric Group in Melbourne & West Melbourne, FL.