Pediatric asthma can make it harder for children to breathe, particularly when their airways become swollen or narrow. The symptoms can be easy to miss, particularly when they come and go or look like a typical cold. If your child’s breathing issues keep coming back, you should call our office to speak with an experienced pediatrician.
Asthma affects the airways, which carry air to and from the lungs. In children with asthma, certain triggers can cause the airways to swell, tighten, or produce extra mucus. This can make normal breathing more difficult.
Common triggers of pediatric asthma include:
It is important to note that symptoms can come and go. Some children may have symptoms only at certain times of the year or during and after physical activity.
The signs of pediatric asthma can vary from one child to another. Some children may have one main symptom, while others may have several. Here are some of the most common signs of asthma in children.
A cough that keeps coming back can be an early sign of asthma. It may be worse at night, after exercise, when laughing, or during a cold. For some children, a cough may be the only noticeable symptom.
Wheezing sounds like a high-pitched whistle when a child breathes, often when breathing out. Not every child with asthma wheezes, but repeated episodes can be a reason to schedule a medical evaluation.
A child with asthma may get out of breath more easily than other children during play or sports. The child may need to stop often, have trouble keeping up with friends, or say that it is hard for them to catch their breath.
Older children and adolescents may describe chest tightness as pressure, squeezing, or discomfort. However, younger children may not have the words to explain it. Instead, they may stop playing, become upset, or ask to be carried.
Nighttime cough or breathing problems can make it difficult for a child to sleep well. Asthma symptoms that regularly wake a child can be a sign that the condition needs better control.
A child experiencing any of the symptoms above should see a pediatrician as soon as possible. The doctor can review the child’s symptoms, perform an exam, and use breathing tests when appropriate. It can also help parents and caregivers document when symptoms occur and whether certain triggers seem to make them worse.
Some breathing problems need immediate medical attention. Emergency warning signs include:
Parents should seek emergency medical services if their child has severe breathing difficulty or seems unable to get enough air, even after administering a rescue inhaler.
While these signs and symptoms can be scary, rest assured that pediatric asthma can be managed with the right treatment plan. With proper care and regular follow-up, many children with asthma can stay active and take part in the activities they enjoy. If your child has repeated breathing symptoms, we can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate care. Call our Zachary office today to learn more about asthma care or to schedule an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.tkzpediatrics.com or call TKZ Pediatrics at (225) 420-1549 for an appointment in our Zachary office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Pediatric Asthma in Zachary, LA.
A pediatric doctor can help parents and guardians understand whether a child’s speech is developing as expected or whether extra support may help. Children typically start to speak in short sentences around age three. If a child takes a little longer, it does not necessarily mean anything is wrong. However, if the child is not…
Pediatric vaccines protect children against many serious diseases by helping the immune system recognize and fight harmful viruses and bacteria. Vaccinations begin during infancy and continue throughout childhood and adolescence to protect children as they grow. Pediatricians recommend following the immunization schedule, which remains one of the most effective ways to support lifelong health.A child's…
Choosing a Pediatrician helps families establish ongoing medical care for a child’s constantly changing health needs. From newborn visits to adolescent checkups, the pediatrician monitors growth, development, and health to provide effective preventive care. Finding a provider who matches the family’s priorities can make routine visits and unexpected concerns easier to manage. A thoughtful search…
Discovering that a child requires stitches after an injury can cause anxiety for any parent. Fortunately, understanding suture removal for kids can help families feel prepared for the follow-up appointment. Knowing what to expect during this brief visit helps parents reassure their children and support proper healing. Here are three tips to ensure a smooth…