Asthma in Children

Asthma is a common pulmonary disease that affects millions of children worldwide. Asthma symptoms in kids can be frightening for both parents and children. This chronic respiratory condition causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making breathing difficult. Understanding the signs of asthma in kids is a stepping stone for early detection and proper management, ensuring a better quality of life for affected children.

Let's explore common asthma symptoms in children, including wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. 

What is Childhood Asthma?

Childhood asthma is a chronic pulmonary or lung disorder that affects the airways, making breathing difficult. It often begins in early childhood, with many children experiencing their first symptoms by age 5. This respiratory illness causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness.

Symptoms of Asthma in Kids

Asthma symptoms in kids can vary widely, making early detection challenging. 

• Common asthma signs include a whistling or wheezing sound when breathing out, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. 
• Frequent coughing spells, especially during play, laughter, or at night, maybe the only symptom for some children
• Parents should watch for rapid breathing, complaints of chest pain, and decreased energy during activities. 
• In severe cases, children might experience retractions, where the area between the ribs and neck sinks during exhalation. 
• Asthma cough in kids often worsens with viral infections, cold air, or exercise. 
• Other symptoms include trouble sleeping, delayed recovery from respiratory infections, and fatigue due to poor sleep. 

What Causes Asthma in Kids?

• The exact cause of asthma symptoms in kids remains unknown. It may result from a complex interplay between genetic & environmental factors. 
• Asthma often begins in childhood when the immune system is still developing. 
• Exposure to allergens (dust mites, pollen, and pet dander) can trigger asthma in susceptible children. 
• Sometimes, physical activities can also result in exercise-induced asthma in kids.
• Respiratory infections due to viruses, like the common cold, may also lead to the development of asthma in kids. 
• Environmental irritants, including air pollution and secondhand smoke, have an influence on the onset of asthma symptoms. 
• Additionally, factors like obesity, race, and family history play a big role in determining a child's risk of developing asthma. 

Complications

Unmanaged asthma symptoms in kids can lead to severe complications. 

• Children may experience frequent asthma attacks, requiring emergency treatment or hospitalisation. This can result in missed school days, falling behind in schoolwork, and interference with play and sports activities. 
• Asthma in kids can cause poor sleep and fatigue, affecting their overall well-being. 
• Long-term effects include permanent decline in lung function and structural changes in the airways, a process known as airway remodelling. This makes breathing increasingly difficult over time. 
• Additionally, children with asthma are more vulnerable to respiratory infections like pneumonia. 

Diagnosis for Asthma in Kids

Diagnosing asthma symptoms in kids can be challenging, especially for children under 5. There's no single definitive test, making the process complex. 

• Doctors rely on a combination of factors, including medical history, symptom patterns, and physical examinations. 
• For children over 5, lung function tests like spirometry help measure airflow and reversibility. These tests assess how much air a child can exhale and how quickly. 
• Younger children often can't perform these tests reliably, so doctors may suggest trying asthma medications to see the response. 
• Doctors may recommend allergy testing to identify potential triggers. 
• In some cases, chest X-rays are used to rule out other conditions. 

Treatment for Asthma in Children

The goal of asthma treatment in children is to control symptoms and prevent flare-ups. 

• Long-term control medicines like inhaled corticosteroids are the cornerstone of asthma management. These medications reduce airway inflammation and are taken daily. 
• Quick-relief medicines, like albuterol, provide immediate relief during asthma attacks. 
• The treatment approach is tailored to the child's age, symptom severity, and triggers. 
• Doctors may use a stepwise approach, adjusting medication doses based on the child's response. An asthma action plan is crucial, outlining daily management and emergency procedures. Parents should ensure their child avoids triggers and receives proper medication. 

When to See a Doctor

Seek immediate help from the doctor if your child experiences a severe asthma attack where quick-relief medicines don't work. Signs of an asthma emergency include 

• Trouble breathing
• Inability to speak without gasping
• Nostrils flaring
• Regular quick-relief inhalers also warrant a doctor's visit, as it may indicate poor asthma control. 

Prevention

Preventing asthma symptoms in kids involves careful planning and avoiding triggers, including:

• Parents can help by limiting exposure to allergens and irritants that cause asthma flare-ups. 
• Keeping the home free of mould, dampness, and air pollution is crucial. 
• Maintaining a healthy weight for children also lowers the risk of developing asthma. 
• It's essential to ban smoking in the home and car, as tobacco smoke is a significant trigger. 
• Regular physical activity, when asthma is well-controlled, can improve lung function. 
• Parents should work with doctors to create an asthma action plan and ensure their child takes controller medications as prescribed. 

Conclusion

Managing asthma in kids is an ongoing process that involves education, prevention, and proper treatment. With the right approach, most children with asthma can control their symptoms & reduce the risk of severe attacks. Regular check-ups, adherence to treatment plans, and awareness of triggers are key to long-term management. By staying informed and proactive, families can ensure that asthma has a minimal impact on their child's quality of life.

FAQ's

1. Is asthma contagious?

No, asthma is not contagious. It is a chronic or long-standing lung condition that affects the airways, making breathing difficult. 

2. What should you do if your child has an asthma attack?

If your child has an asthma attack, follow their asthma action plan. Use quick-relief medicine as prescribed, help them stay calm, and monitor their symptoms. If the attack is severe or doesn't improve with medication, seek emergency medical care immediately.

3. Can childhood asthma be cured?

There is no cure for childhood asthma, but you can effectively manage it. With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, most children with asthma can lead normal, active lives. 

4. What age do children get asthma?

Asthma can develop at any age, but many children experience their first symptoms by age 5. It is the most common chronic disease in childhood.

5. Can kids with asthma live a normal life?

Yes, children with asthma can lead normal, active lives with proper management. They can participate in sports and other activities when their asthma is well-controlled. 

6. How to control asthma in kids?

To control asthma in kids, follow the prescribed treatment plan, which may include daily medications and quick-relief inhalers. Identify and avoid triggers, maintain a healthy weight, and ensure regular check-ups. 

7. Can childhood asthma go away?

Some children may experience fewer asthma symptoms as they age, but this doesn't mean they've outgrown their asthma. It's estimated that 25% of children with resolved symptoms will have them return by age 21 and 35% by age 26. 

Dr. Kumbham Shiva Reddy

MBBS, MD (Pediatrics)
CARE Hospitals Outpatient Centre, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad

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