Does Your Child Have Asthma?

Be able to recognize the warning signs of asthma in your child.

Asthma is the leading chronic disorder in children. If you notice that your child has been having trouble catching their breath, you may be wondering whether or not they might have asthma. Let our Clarkston, GA, pediatricians provide your child with a swift diagnosis and customized treatment plan. Don’t ignore their symptoms; get their asthma treated right away.

What are the warning signs of childhood asthma?

The most common warning signs of childhood asthma include, 

• A persistent cough 
• Shortness of breath 
• Struggling to catch their breath
• Wheezing when breathing 
• Coughing spells that are often worse at night or after exercise 
• Tightness in the chest 
• Feeling easily tired or weak 

What can trigger an asthma attack? 

Many things can trigger an attack, such as, 

• Respiratory infections 
• Cigarette smoke 
• Exercise 
• Dust 
• Pet dander 
• Certain chemicals and irritants 
• Changes in weather 
• Stress

It’s important to continuously monitor when your child’s symptoms appear to figure out what might be triggering their asthma. 

When should I bring my child into the office?

If your child is experiencing any of the symptoms above, it’s best to play it safe and see your child’s doctor. Early treatment is key to getting your child’s symptoms under control and reducing the chances of serious asthma attacks and possible hospitalizations. 

How is asthma treated? 

Asthma can be controlled with the help of prescription medication. Our pediatrician will determine the proper medication based on the frequency, type, and severity of your child’s symptoms. Also, what triggers their symptoms may also determine the appropriate medication. 

Your child will be prescribed a long-acting inhaler that often contains a corticosteroid in most cases. A fast-acting inhaler will also be prescribed. The long-acting medication is used every day to help control symptoms, while a fast-acting inhaler is only used when symptoms flare up to help prevent an attack. You can also make certain lifestyle adjustments to reduce certain allergens in the home that could trigger an attack. 

Will my child’s asthma go away? 

While most children diagnosed with asthma will not grow out of it, symptoms and flare-ups may decrease over time. Ensuring your child is using their asthma medication properly is the best way to safeguard them from flare-ups and reduce symptoms. 

If your child is displaying telltale signs of asthma, you should turn to our pediatric team at Decatur Pediatric Group. We provide care to children and teens living in Clarkston, Smyrna, and Lithonia, GA. Call us at (404) 296-7133.