ASTHMA IN CHILDREN

Childhood asthma is the same disease adults get, but it affects children differently. Your little one’s lungs and airways can easily get inflamed when they’re exposed to things like pollen or a cold. The symptoms may only make it hard for your child to play outside, take part in sports, or sleep. But sometimes they can cause dangerous asthma attacks that result in a trip to the hospital.
 

Common triggers include:
 

Airway infections: Colds, pneumonia, sinus infections.
 

Allergens: Things your child is allergic to, like cockroaches, dust mites, mold, pet dander, pollen.
 

Irritants: Things that bother the airways like air pollution, chemicals, cold air, odors, smoke.
 

Exercise: It can lead to wheezing, coughing, and a tight chest.
 

Stress: It can make your child feel short of breath and worsen their symptoms.
 

Signs and Symptoms of Asthma in Kids.
 

Not all children have the same asthma symptoms, and they can vary from episode to episode in the same child. Possible signs and symptoms of asthma in children include:
 

Frequent coughing spells, which can happen during play, at night, or while laughing or crying.
 

A chronic cough (which may be the only symptom).
 

Less energy during play.
 

Rapid breathing (from time to time).
 

Complaint of chest tightness or chest hurting.
 

Wheezing -- a whistling sound when breathing in or out.
 

Retractions -- seesaw motions in the chest from labored breathing.
 

Shortness of breath, loss of breath.
 

Tightened neck and chest muscles.
 

Feeling weak or tired.
 

Childhood asthma isn’t curable, but you can work with your child’s doctor to treat it and prevent damage to their growing lungs.