Identifying Asthma in Children

 

Asthma in children is one of the leading causes of chronic illness. Up to 10% of children have asthma which can begin at any age. Asthma in children typically appears around the age of 5.

When it comes to asthma in children there are risk factors for developing the condition. Allergies and frequent respiratory infections are common symptoms with asthma in children, as well as having had a low birth rate, and having exposure to tobacco smoke.

Asthma in children is becoming more and more common and experts are not sure why. Some believe that the increase of asthma in children is caused by excessive pollution in our air. Others believe asthma in children is increasing because we have over immunized our children and they have not have the opportunity to build a proper immune system.

In terms of recognizing asthma in children, you should look for frequent coughing spell. Coughing caused by asthma in children is often the only symptom present (no runny nose or sore throat- just a cough that occurs during playtime or at night.)

Other symptoms that occur with asthma in children are rapid breathing, shortness of breath and complaints of feeling week and tired.

Asthma in children is hard to diagnose. A diagnosis of asthma in children under 5 can be hard to determine, and asthma in children who are older is often determined based on the child’s medical history, their symptoms and a physical exam.

Asthma in children is a serious condition and needs to be addressed by a physician. If you think your child is having an asthma episode (see-was motions in the chest and labored breathing) take her to the emergency room.

Interested in learning more about identifying asthma in children? Get your copy of The Baby Report today!