According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), asthma is a leading chronic disease in children. There are currently 4.5 million children under the age of 18 with asthma. This disease is very common. However, it is still a scary diagnosisfor parents when they learn their child has it. The best thing to do as a parent is learn about asthma. Understanding this condition is the first step in learning how to manage it. In this blog, you will learn about what childhood asthma is. Along with its symptoms and how it is diagnosed. As well as the steps you can take to manage it. As noted by the Johns Hopkins and the Mayo Clinic.

What is Childhood Asthma?

Asthma is a chronic condition. When you have asthma the airways of your lungs become inflamed and narrowed. This makes it very hard to breathe. Asthma can pop up at any age. Yet, it most commonly manifests in early childhood years. The severity of asthma can vary from one child to another. Ranging from mild symptoms that only happen here and there to persistent symptoms. If your child has persistent symptoms they may require ongoing medical management.

Symptoms 

Knowing the symptoms of asthma in children is very important. This is because if you can identify them early you can start early intervention. The following are common symptoms that can pop up in your children:

• Frequent coughing.
• Wheezing or whistle sound when breathing out.
• Shortness of breath.
• Chest tightness or congestion.
• Fatigue.

How is Childhood Asthma Diagnosed?

Asthma can be hard to diagnose. This is especially true if your child is under the age of 5.This is because some asthma symptoms overlap with other conditions. Which often co-occur with asthma. The following are common steps in the diagnostic process. To determine if symptoms are due to asthma, another condition, or both.

• Medical History: Your child’s provider will ask about your child’s symptoms. Along with questions about your family’s medical history of asthma or allergies. 

• Physical Exam: During your child’s visit the provider will listen to your child’s lungs. This is to check for wheezing or any other unusual sounds.

• Lung Function Tests: Known as a spirometry test, this test is done to measure how much air your child can inhale and exhale. As well as how quickly they can expel air from their lungs.

• Allergy Testing: Some allergies can trigger asthma symptoms. Doctors might perform skin or blood tests to identify potential allergens.

Managing Childhood Asthma

Effective asthma management is about avoiding triggers. In addition to keeping up with your child’s treatment plan and keeping an eye on symptoms. Here are some tips to help you stay on top of your child’s asthma:

• Avoid Triggers: Common asthma triggers are things like pollen, dust, pet dander, mold, and smoke. Find out what triggers your child. Once you do minimize their exposure so that you can reduce their symptoms.

• Medication: Asthma medications fall into two categories: quick-relief and long-term control medications. Quick-relief medications are like albuterol inhalers. These are used during an asthma attack. They help open your child’s airways. Long-term control medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids, help reduce airway inflammation and prevent symptoms.

• Action Plan: Work with your child’s healthcare provider. In order to develop a tailored asthma action plan. This plan should have daily management strategies. Typically for how to handle worsening symptoms. As well as when to seek emergency care.

• Regular Monitoring: Keep track of your child’s symptoms to monitor their asthma control. Regular follow-ups with their doctor are key. That way you can adjust treatment. If it is needed.

Visit Clinicas 

Understanding childhood asthma is vital for effective management. Be sure to symptoms early. That way you can work closely with your child’s doctor. Thus helping your child to lead an active and healthy life. Even with their asthma! For comprehensive asthma care visit Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc. today. Clinicas Pediatric Care Services has an expert team. A team that is dedicated to giving your child the best care. Take the first step towards better asthma management and make an appointment with Clinicas. Clinicas is here for both you and your child always.