Asthma is a common chronic condition affecting the airways, causing breathing difficulties in children. Pediatric asthma can interfere with a child’s daily activities and, if left untreated, may lead to serious complications. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of asthma in children, helping them manage their symptoms and enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle. With locations in Glenwood Park, Brookhaven, and Decatur, our Atlanta-based pediatricians provide expert care to families throughout the city.
Childhood Asthma Symptoms
Asthma symptoms in children can vary from mild to severe and may differ from one child to another. Some children may experience symptoms occasionally, while others may have frequent and severe asthma attacks. Common childhood asthma symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity or at night
- Wheezing or whistling sounds when exhaling
- Chronic coughing, often worse at night or after exercise
- Chest tightness or discomfort
- Fatigue during or after physical activities
- Frequent respiratory infections or colds that seem to linger
These symptoms can be triggered by a variety of factors, such as allergens, cold air, respiratory infections, physical activity, or irritants like smoke or strong odors. Recognizing these triggers and managing them is a key part of asthma treatment.
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Pediatric Asthma Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosing asthma in children involves a comprehensive evaluation by a pediatrician, as symptoms can sometimes mimic other respiratory conditions. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, our pediatricians use a variety of methods to assess and diagnose asthma in children, including:
Medical History
We review your child’s medical history and ask about the frequency and severity of their symptoms, as well as any family history of asthma or allergies.
Physical Examination
A thorough physical exam is conducted to listen to your child’s lungs and assess their breathing patterns.
Lung Function Tests
For older children, lung function tests such as spirometry may be used to measure how much air your child can breathe in and out, as well as how fast they can exhale.
Allergy Testing
Since allergies can trigger asthma symptoms, we may recommend allergy testing to identify specific allergens contributing to your child’s condition.
Treatment for Pediatric Asthma
Asthma is a lifelong condition that requires ongoing management, but with the right treatment plan, children with asthma can lead normal, active lives. The goal of asthma treatment is to control symptoms, prevent asthma attacks, and improve overall lung function. Treatment options for pediatric asthma include:
Inhaled Medications
These are the cornerstone of asthma management and include bronchodilators (rescue inhalers) to relieve symptoms during an attack and corticosteroids (controller inhalers) to reduce inflammation in the airways over time.
Nebulizers
For younger children who cannot use an inhaler, a nebulizer may be used to deliver asthma medication in mist form, making it easier to inhale.
Avoiding Triggers
Identifying and avoiding asthma triggers is essential for managing the condition. Common triggers include allergens like dust mites, pollen, or pet dander, as well as irritants such as smoke or strong smells.
Asthma Action Plan
We work with families to develop an asthma action plan, a personalized guide to managing your child’s asthma. This plan includes steps to take during an asthma attack, instructions for daily medication use, and advice on when to seek medical help.
With regular follow-up appointments, our team ensures that your child’s asthma management plan is working effectively and adjusts treatment as needed.
Preventing Asthma Attacks
While asthma cannot be cured, it can be well-managed to reduce the risk of asthma attacks. Some tips for preventing asthma attacks include:
- Monitoring your child’s breathing and recognizing early warning signs of an asthma flare-up
- Ensuring your child takes their controller medications as prescribed, even when they are not experiencing symptoms
- Limiting exposure to known triggers such as pollen, dust, smoke, and pet dander
- Keeping up with regular check-ups to monitor your child’s lung function and adjust medications if needed
- Using a peak flow meter to measure how well air moves out of your child’s lungs, allowing you to detect early signs of an asthma attack
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Asthma
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While some children may experience fewer symptoms as they get older, asthma is generally considered a chronic condition. It’s important to continue managing the condition even if symptoms seem to improve.
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This depends on the severity of your child’s asthma and the type of inhaler they are using. Rescue inhalers are used during an asthma attack, while controller inhalers are used daily to manage symptoms. Your pediatrician will provide specific instructions based on your child’s needs.
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Follow your child’s asthma action plan, which will outline the steps to take during an attack. This typically includes using a rescue inhaler and monitoring your child’s breathing. If symptoms don’t improve or worsen, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
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Yes, physical activity can sometimes trigger asthma symptoms. However, with proper asthma management, most children can participate in sports and physical activities. A quick-relief inhaler used before exercise can help prevent symptoms.
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Asthma symptoms may be harder to detect in younger children, and they may not be able to describe their symptoms as well as older children. Young children with asthma often have more frequent respiratory infections, which can worsen asthma symptoms.
Schedule an Appointment for Asthma Care in Atlanta
If your child is experiencing symptoms of asthma or if you are looking for expert care to manage their condition, contact Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine at (404) 446-4726 to schedule an appointment. Our team is here to provide comprehensive asthma care at our locations in Glenwood Park, Brookhaven, and Decatur, serving families throughout Atlanta.