Over eight percent of children in the United States have asthma, a disease that’s become more common over the last 40 years. While it’s possible for children to outgrow the condition, there’s no guarantee your child will be one of them. Early recognition of asthma symptoms can make adjusting to the disease a regular part of your life.
The right solution for any asthmatic may be as unique as they are. Asthma patients have different attack triggers, and they may respond better to certain medications than others. It’s important to partner with a pediatric asthma specialist, and in Katy, Texas, that’s Katy Pediatric Associates. Their doctors can help you and your child manage asthma so it doesn’t define your lives.
Early recognition and treatment can keep asthma from damaging young lungs, and typically, it’s parents who first detect the symptoms that lead to diagnosis and treatment. Watch for these telltale symptoms of asthma in your child, and follow up with Katy Pediatric as soon as possible.
There are four classic asthma symptoms to watch for, as well as a range of effects that can be helpful to know if your child isn’t yet able to clearly describe the way they feel.
Chronic coughing without any other active illness could be a sign of asthma. When your child has a respiratory infection like a cold, the coughing could be much worse. They may start to cough in their sleep, while playing, or when moving into colder air.
A whistling or wheezing sound when they’re breathing is another asthma giveaway. The reduction in size of the airways due to asthma changes the way air moves, and it can cause unusual vibrations
A feeling of tightness, pain, or simply a sensation that “feels funny” could all be due to asthma, particularly when accompanied by other, secondary symptoms.
Heavier breathing is natural during sports or active play. Instead, watch for inconsistencies, shortness of breath that emerges during activities that wouldn’t normally cause such a response.
Asthma can be difficult to recognize, since not all children show all symptoms. Even then, they might be caused by bronchitis or other respiratory issues. That’s why it’s important to get a medical diagnosis.
Because children sometimes can’t express things clearly about their physical condition, you may spot other effects caused by the asthma symptoms. For instance, your child may have trouble sleeping due to coughing fits or shortness of breath. Other secondary symptoms include:
Contact Katy Pediatric Associates for an exam to determine if breathing issues are asthma-related. You can book by calling the office directly at 281-492-7676, or by using the online booking tool on this page. You’ll breathe easier, knowing that your child’s asthma is under control.
