Childhood asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory condition. It affects millions of children worldwide. If you have also noticed recurring breathing difficulties, coughing, or wheezing experienced by your kid, it may have the possibility of asthma.
In order to learn about the possibility of asthma in children, useful insights have been taken from Dr. Promilla Butani, an expert child and a General Pediatrician in Delhi. By incorporating that information in this blog, we are going to explore childhood asthma, its common signs and symptoms, and what you should do if you suspect your child has asthma.
Childhood Asthma
Asthma is a chronic lung condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, lungs. Even though asthma can develop at any age, it often begins in childhood. Children with asthma have sensitive airways that react to various triggers, causing their symptoms to flare up.
Signs and Symptoms of Childhood Asthma
- Coughing: Persistent coughing, especially at night or early morning, is a common asthma symptom in children. The cough may be dry or produce mucus.
- Wheezing: Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound when breathing, typically during exhalation. It results from narrowed airways and is a hallmark sign of asthma.
- Shortness of Breath: Children with asthma may experience difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity or in response to triggers.
- Chest Tightness: Asthma can cause a sensation of tightness or discomfort in the chest.
- Increased Mucus Production: Some children with asthma may produce more mucus, which can further contribute to coughing and difficulty breathing.
- Frequent Respiratory Infections: Children with asthma may be more susceptible to respiratory infections like cold and bronchitis, which can exacerbate their asthma symptoms.
Does My Child Have Asthma?
If you suspect your child may have asthma due to the presence of the above symptoms, it's essential to consult a child specialist like Dr. Promilla Butani. The diagnosis of Asthma in children performed by the best child specialist in Delhi typically involves:
- Examining the medical history of child and family members for asthma or allergies.
- Physical examination of the functioning of the child's lung.
- Spirometry and peak flow measurement test.
- Allergy testing to identify potential triggers for your child's asthma symptoms.
- Chest X-rays or other imaging tests.
Managing Childhood Asthma
If a child is diagnosed with asthma, it is important to work closely with a medical expert to develop a personalized asthma action plan which may include:
- Medications for quick-relief
- Identifying the factors that trigger asthma, such as allergens, smoke, and pollution.
- Monitoring of lung functioning.
- Educate the child about their condition and guide their parents on how to use the medications properly.
Conclusion
Childhood asthma is a manageable condition, and with the right care and support. Based on the signs symptoms, if you suspect your child may have asthma, don't hesitate to seek medical advice. One can consult, Dr. Promilla Butani a leading paediatrician ranked among top 10 child specialists in Delhi. She is a renowned specialist having almost five decades of experience. She will provide the best suited treatment after a thorough examination. To avail the benefits consult her at Dr. Promilla Butani’s Pediatrics Practice.