On this page, you will find everything you need to know about asthma in children.

What Is Asthma in Children?

Asthma is a common lung condition that causes breathing difficulties from time to time. It also causes recurrent episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing at night or early in the morning. It affects people of all ages and often begins in childhood, although it can also develop for the first time in adults.

What Are the Symptoms of Asthma in Children?

The main symptoms of asthma are:

• Wheezing sound when breathing.
• Shortness of breath.
• Tightness in the chest.

Symptoms can sometimes temporarily worsen, known as an asthma attack.

What Are the Causes of Asthma in Children?

The exact cause of asthma is unknown. People with asthma experience swelling (inflammation) in the airways, which becomes narrow and clogged with sticky mucus in response to certain triggers. Several factors can increase the likelihood of a child developing asthma, including:

• Having an allergy-related condition, such as eczema, food allergies, or hay fever.
• Having a family history of asthma.
• Developing bronchiolitis, a common lung infection during childhood.
• Exposure to tobacco smoke.
• Maternal smoking during pregnancy.
• Premature birth (before 37 weeks) or low birth weight.
• Allergies, such as household dust, pet fur, or pollen.

What Are the Diagnostic Methods?

The doctor will take a medical history and conduct a physical examination, and may request additional procedures as needed, such as:

• FeNO Test: The patient breathes into a machine that measures the level of nitric oxide in the breath, an indicator of inflammation in the lungs.
• Spirometry: The patient blows into a device that measures how fast they can exhale and how much air their lungs can hold.
• Peak Flow Test: The patient blows into a handheld device that measures the speed at which air can be exhaled, repeated several times over weeks to monitor changes over time.
• Lung Function Test.

After being diagnosed with asthma, the patient might also undergo a chest X-ray or allergy tests to determine if the symptoms are allergy-related.

What Are the Treatment Methods for Asthma in Children?

There is currently  no cure, but there are simple medications that can help control the symptoms. Asthma is typically treated using an inhaler, a small device that allows the patient to inhale the medication. The main types are:

• Reliever Inhalers: Used as needed for quick, short-term relief of asthma symptoms.
• Preventer Inhalers: Used daily to prevent asthma symptoms.

How to Prevent Asthma Attacks in Children?

Avoid asthma attack triggers such as:

• Avoid dust.
• Stay indoors and keep windows closed during dust storms.
• Avoid household irritants like incense and diffusers.
• Change bedding regularly.
• Clean curtains.
• Keep children away from psychological stress.

What Are the Complications of Asthma in Children?

Although asthma can typically be well-controlled, it remains a serious condition that can cause several problems. Therefore, it is important to follow the patient’s treatment plan and not ignore symptoms if they worsen.

Poorly treated asthma can cause issues, such as:

• Constant tiredness.
• Poor academic performance or missing school.
• Stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Delayed growth or puberty in children.
• The risk of severe asthma attacks, which can be life-threatening.

When Should You Consult a Doctor?

Consult a doctor if you suspect your child has asthma. Many conditions can cause symptoms similar to asthma, so it is important to obtain an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Asthma Disappear in Children?

Many cases of childhood asthma are resolved as they age.