Asthma in children, similar to that in adults

     Asthma in children shares key characteristics with adult asthma, namely chronic inflammation of the bronchial lining that affects daily life. Additionally, children's airways are more sensitive to triggers, leading to bronchoconstriction. However, childhood asthma can often be managed effectively with bronchodilators.

How to Know if a Child Has Asthma

Since children may not be able to express symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, or fatigue as clearly as adults, parents or guardians should look for signs such as:

• Frequent coughing, rapid breathing, retraction of the chest, and occasional wheezing
• Intermittent cough that may be accompanied by fever or mucus
• A longer duration of colds and coughs compared to typical children
• Increased coughing at night and in the early morning
• Coughing or breathlessness after exercise
• Improvement in coughing symptoms with bronchodilator medication

Diagnosis by a Pediatrician

     These symptoms suggest bronchial narrowing and sensitivity to various triggers. A pediatrician will take a history, including associated symptoms, frequency, severity, impact on learning or activities, physical examination, lung function tests (for older children), family history of allergies, exposure to tobacco smoke, and other factors contributing to asthma symptoms to diagnose and assess the severity of asthma.

The Cause of Asthma In Children

• Internal Factors: Genetics play a role. If there are direct relatives (parents or siblings) with asthma or allergies, the likelihood of a child developing asthma is higher than in the general population.
• External Factors: Allergens such as dust mites, cockroaches, pet dander, pollen, and irritants like tobacco smoke, vehicle exhaust, and various toxins.

Asthma In Children Treatment

• Avoidance of Allergens: Avoiding triggers is a key aspect of asthma management.
• Medications: Various medications are available, including inhalers, oral medications, and allergy immunotherapy, with treatment tailored to the severity of the condition.
• Regular Medical Follow-up: Continuous monitoring and consultations with a healthcare provider are essential.

Asthma can affect a child's physical and mental well-being. Therefore, proper treatment and guidance are necessary for the child's health and quality of life.