Childhood Asthma Explained: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Quality Care Global

5 min read

Child asthma

Did you know that asthma affects about 6 million children in the United States? That’s roughly one in ten kids! Childhood asthma can be a scary diagnosis for parents and children alike. But understanding it can help manage the condition better.

Let’s have a look at its causes, diagnosis, and treatment options!

What is childhood asthma?

Childhood asthma makes breathing difficult, just like adult asthma. In pediatric or childhood asthma, the airways in the lungs become inflamed (swollen) and narrowed. As a result, air cannot pass through your lungs easily. This leads to wheezing, cough, and shortness of breath.

Several things including allergens and infections could trigger asthma in children. It can interfere with daily activities like playing, school, or sleep.

What are the symptoms of childhood asthma?

So how do you know if your child has asthma? Here are some common signs to watch for:

  • Frequent coughing, especially at night or during play
  • Wheezing or a whistling sound when breathing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Feeling tightness in the chest

If your child often experiences these symptoms, it’s time to see a doctor.

Seeking treatment abroad? QCG can connect you with child specialists worldwide.

What are the causes of childhood asthma?

You might wonder, why your child is getting asthma. What could be the reason? Let’s take a look at some potential causes of asthma in children:

Family history

If asthma or allergies run in your family, your child may be more likely to develop asthma. Yes! genetics play a role here.

Allergens

Certain allergens can also trigger asthma symptoms. Common allergens include:

  • Mold
  • Pollen
  • Dust Mites
  • Pet Dander

Irritants

Everyday irritants can worsen asthma symptoms, including:

  • Cigarette smoke
  • Strong odors like perfumes, cleaning products, and paint fumes.
  • Air pollutants, such as particulate matter and smoke from vehicles.

Infections

Respiratory infections, such as cold and flu, can also trigger asthma symptoms:

Weather changes

Changes in the weather, like cold air or sudden temperature shifts, can make asthma symptoms worse.

Exercise

For some children, physical activity can also provoke asthma symptoms.

Risk factors of childhood asthma

Here are some key risk factors that can increase a child’s chances of developing asthma:

  • Allergies (nasal allergies or eczema)
  • Family history of asthma/allergies
  • Frequent respiratory infections
  • Low birth weight
  • Exposure to tobacco smoke
  • Assigned male at birth (AMAB)
  • Living near pollution or in inner cities
  • Ethnicity (Black, African American, Puerto Rican, Indigenous, Native American, or Alaska Native)

How to diagnose childhood asthma?

Diagnosis of asthma in children typically looks like as follows:

Medical history

The doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms, family history of asthma, and any known allergies.

Physical exam

A basic check-up to listen to your child’s lungs and check for signs of asthma.

Tests

Your doctor might perform some blood and lung function tests, including:

  • Spirometry: to measure how well your child’s lungs are working.
  • Allergy tests: to identify possible triggers for asthma.
  • Chest X-rays: to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

Is childhood asthma curable?

Yes! While asthma is a chronic condition, it is manageable. Many children see significant improvements in their symptoms over time and some may even outgrow asthma as they grow older.

Childhood asthma treatment

When it comes to treating childhood asthma, the approach depends on how severe and frequent the symptoms are.

An allergist can help create a tailored treatment plan, which often includes:

1. Medications

Take medicines as per the prescription of your doctor to manage your symptoms. These may include:

Quick-relief inhalers

These are also known as rescue inhalers. They help quickly relieve asthma symptoms during an attack. It’s important for your child to carry this inhaler with them all the time, especially during sports or activities.

Long-term control medications

These medications help prevent asthma symptoms from happening in the first place. They are taken daily, even when your child feels fine. The most common are:

  • Inhaled corticosteroids: These are the most common long-term medications and work to reduce inflammation in the airways.
  • Antileukotrienes: These medications help block substances in the body that can trigger asthma symptoms.
  • Long-acting inhaled Beta2-agonists: These keep the airways open for longer periods and are often used with inhaled corticosteroids.
  • Biologics: For children with severe asthma, biologic treatments can be an option. These newer medications target specific pathways in the immune system to help manage asthma.

2. Creating an asthma action plan

Work with your healthcare provider to make a written plan. This plan should include:

  • How to manage daily asthma care
  • What to do during an asthma attack
  • When to seek medical help

3. Regular check-ups

Visit the doctor regularly. They can help monitor your child’s asthma and adjust treatments if necessary.

By following these treatment options, you can help your child manage their asthma effectively and lead a healthy, active life.

Childhood asthma treatment abroad

The trend of medical tourism is on the rise as more families seek better treatment options for childhood asthma.

If you’re considering treatment abroad, Turkey is an excellent choice. The country offers high-quality hospitals, experienced doctors, and a wide range of affordable treatments, including the latest medications and allergy testing.

Other countries to explore include the United States, Germany, Singapore, Australia, Canada, and various regions in Asia. Each of these destinations has its unique strengths in asthma care.

If you're thinking about seeking treatment overseas, Quality Care Global (QCG) is here to help. Our services ensure you access quality treatment from reputable hospitals around the world, making your journey smoother and more effective.

What happens if childhood asthma goes untreated?

If childhood asthma is left untreated, it can lead to several serious issues:

  • Worsening symptoms: Symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath can become more frequent and severe.
  • Increased risk of attacks: Untreated asthma increases the likelihood of asthma attacks, which can be dangerous and may require emergency care.
  • Limited activity: Children may struggle to participate in sports and play, affecting their physical health and social life.
  • School absences: Frequent symptoms can lead to missed days at school, impacting a child’s education and development.
  • Long-term lung damage: Chronic untreated asthma can result in long-term lung issues and decreased lung function.

Plus, living with untreated asthma can cause stress and anxiety for both the child and their family.

Managing childhood asthma

Managing childhood asthma involves knowing what triggers your child’s symptoms and taking steps to prevent them. Here are some practical tips:

  • Keep your home clean and wash bedding often to reduce dust.
  • No smoking in the house or car to avoid secondhand smoke.
  • Keep pets out of the bedroom if your child is allergic.
  • Close windows during high pollen seasons and limit outdoor play.
  • Use air purifiers and avoid strong smells like perfumes or cleaners.
  • Keep your home comfortable and use a dehumidifier to prevent mold.
  • Make sure your child gets vaccines and wash hands often to avoid illness.
  • Encourage healthy eating and regular physical activity, while managing asthma.
  • Help your child know their asthma triggers and have an action plan with your doctor.

In conclusion, while childhood asthma can be a challenge, it is manageable with the right approach. By taking the above steps, you can help your child manage their asthma effectively and lead a healthy, active life.