Asthma

What is asthma?

Asthma occurs when a child’s airways become narrow and swollen due to too much mucus being produced. The severity of asthma varies considerably, with some patients experiencing only mild symptoms and others suffering from life-threatening attacks.

What causes asthma?

Doctors aren’t sure why some children get asthma and others don’t. However, research has shown that asthma is more common among people who have a family history of asthma, have been exposed to smoke, have been exposed to environmental toxins, or have other allergic conditions.

What are the symptoms of asthma?

The symptoms of asthma may include:

• Chest pain
• Chest tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing
• Wheezing

Many children with asthma experience worsened symptoms when they have a cold or the influenza virus. Some children may also struggle with sleep disturbances because of asthma symptoms.

How does Dangond Pediatrics diagnose asthma?

Our doctors may suspect asthma based on a child’s symptoms and a parent’s description of incidents involving the child’s breathing. To confirm the diagnosis of asthma, our doctors may order tests to assess lung function, such as spirometry and a peak flow test. We may also order additional tests to rule out other conditions that may be causing the child’s symptoms.

What treatments are available?

After our doctors confirm the diagnosis of asthma, we discuss treatment options with the parents. Most children with a diagnosis of asthma receive inhaled bronchodilators that they can use to alleviate symptoms during an attack. Children with this condition may also receive maintenance medications designed to keep their condition in check.

When should patients with asthma schedule an appointment at Dangond Pediatrics?

After a child is diagnosed with asthma, parents should make appointments with Dangond Pediatrics on a regular basis to make sure that the child’s medications are working properly. Parents should also make an appointment with Dangond Pediatrics if they suspect that the child’s asthma may be worsening. Signs that asthma may be getting worse include more frequent use of the rescue medication and an increased severity of symptoms. If a child’s asthma becomes more severe, our doctors may recommend new treatments.