What is pediatric asthma?
Pediatric asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes inflammation and tightening of a child’s airway. This makes it difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs, which produces symptoms of coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness.
Pediatric asthma isn't a different disease from asthma in adults, but children face unique challenges. The condition is a leading cause of emergency department visits, hospitalizations and missed school days.
Pediatric asthma can cause irritating daily symptoms and disrupt children’s activities such as play, sports, school, and sleep. In some children, unmanaged asthma can cause dangerous asthma attacks.
What can trigger pediatric asthma?
Common triggers include physical activity, environmental allergies, upper respiratory infections, cold air or strong emotional states.
What are symptoms of pediatric asthma?
A whistling or wheezing sound when breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest congestion or tightness
- Frequent coughing
- Pediatric asthma also might cause:
- Trouble sleeping due to shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing
- Coughing or wheezing that get worse with a cold or the flu
- Delayed recovery or bronchitis after a respiratory infection
- Trouble breathing that hinders play or exercise
- Fatigue, which can be due to poor sleep
These symptoms vary from child to child and might get worse or better over time. Your child might have only one symptom.
What are the treatment options for pediatric asthma?
A cure for asthma does not exist, but once it is properly diagnosed, it can be managed. Treatment options include nebulizers, inhalers, and prescription medications. As a child gets older, their asthma symptoms may get better.