Early Signs of Asthma in Children What Parents Should Watch For

Published on: 24th September 2024
Medically reviewed by: Dr. Diana Salama

Not just adults, children can also have asthma, a chronic respiratory disease that affects the lungs. The child finds difficulty breathing due to the narrowing and swelling of the airways. If the condition is left untreated, then an asthma attack may happen anytime, which is life-threatening if not prevented. As a parent, thus, it is important to know the childhood asthma symptoms of your kid and how to manage them so that your child can have a better life, and stay safe.

Let us delve deeper into childhood asthma and its causes, risk factors, symptoms, warning signs, seeking help, treatment, prevention, and more.

Understanding Asthma in Children

Asthma may occur in children when their immune system is still developing. It can cause asthma cough, wheezing, and chest tightness, which worsens in the presence of certain triggers. The first signs are visible by the age of 2. Frequent asthmatic problems impact the daily life of the child regarding going to school, playtime, etc.

More and more kids are getting afflicted by the condition because of air pollution, exposure to allergens such as secondhand smoke and dust, lower rates of breastfeeding causing a weaker immune system, and other reasons.

Causes and Risk Factors of Childhood Asthma

While what causes asthma is not confirmed yet, several factors may affect your child’s lung development and immune system:

Things found in the environment like tobacco smoke, dust, certain polluted gasses, etc.
Family history of asthma or if the parent of the child has the condition.
If the kid is affected with respiratory infections at a tender age, then childhood asthma is more likely to occur.
Some of the risk factors resulting in childhood asthma symptoms are low birth weight, allergies, genetics, viral infection, living in a region with high air pollution, and exposure to tobacco smoke during pregnancy or after birth.

Signs of Asthma in Children

The symptoms and signs of asthma in children may differ from one kid to another. Here are some of the asthma effects to watch out for:

Shortness of breath (dyspnea) or rapid breathing.
Frequent spells of coughing known as asthma cough, wherein the child gets a coughing fit suddenly during laughing or playing. It can also happen right after the child wakes up or goes to sleep.
Chest tightness or pain in the chest when the kid breathes in or out with wheezing (whistling sound).
Irritability, feeling of tiredness or weakness, trouble eating or sucking at the time of feeding
When the child is trying hard to breathe, the area between the neck and ribs sinks during exhaling. This is known as retraction, one of the childhood asthma symptoms.
Lack of energy for any physical activity, especially during playtime.
Retractions. When the area between your child’s ribs and neck area sinks in when they try to exhale. Retractions are a sign your child is working hard to breathe.

Signs of an Asthma Attack: When to Seek Treatment for Asthma?

Asthma exacerbation or asthma attack occurs when the symptoms start to get worse. If not controlled in time, the attack progresses quickly and can be fatal. You should get a doctor on call right away if your childhood asthma symptoms are getting severe. Below are a few signs of an asthma attack.

Serious breathing problems.
Severe coughing.
Face, fingernails, or lips start to turn bluish and pale.
Worsening rapid breathing, wheezing, or shortness of breath.
Inability to speak or trouble speaking in sentences.
Increased heartbeat and breathing.

Options for Childhood Asthma Treatment

Childhood asthma treatment focuses on managing symptoms, preventing flare-ups, and allowing them to lead active, healthy lives. With the right combination of daily medications, trigger avoidance, and regular monitoring, most children can keep their asthma well-controlled and enjoy normal activities with minimal interruptions.

1. Controller Medications:

These are taken every day to keep the symptoms in check and prevent flare-ups. A common type is inhaled corticosteroids, which works by reducing inflammation in the airways. Think of this as a daily routine that helps keep asthma calm and under control.

2. Rescue Medications:

Used during an asthma attack, these medications help quickly open up the airways, making it easier to breathe. Quick-relief inhalers, like albuterol, are a good example. It’s like a safety net, ready to step in when asthma suddenly flares up.

3. Avoiding Triggers:

It’s essential to recognize and avoid things that can worsen asthma, such as dust, smoke, pet dander, or even specific foods. Simple steps, like keeping the house free of dust or staying away from strong scents, can significantly reduce the risk of an asthma attack.

4. Asthma Action Plan

This is a personalized, written guide made with a doctor that outlines daily management tips, how to spot worsening symptoms, and what actions to take during an asthma attack. It’s like a step-by-step guide to managing asthma at home, school, or wherever you are.

5. Regular Check-ups:

Frequent visits to the doctor help ensure asthma is well-managed, allowing for adjustments in medications if necessary and monitoring the child’s progress. These appointments are key to keeping asthma under control over the long term.

With proper care and by following these steps, children with asthma can enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle, with fewer disruptions from their condition.

How Can I Prevent an Asthma Attack?

Here are some of the ways to notice symptoms and prevent them from worsening, or turning into an asthma attack:

Help your child to maintain a healthy weight. Watch their diet and include nutritious food items. If they have heartburn, then get it treated as well.
If you start seeing signs of asthma, address it immediately by providing medicine or inhaler. Wait for a few minutes to see if the problem is going away. In case the issue persists, then seek emergency care.
Avoid smoking near your child, and keep him/her away from places high in air pollution.
Install an air filter in your kid’s bedroom, especially if you have pets.
Keep home interiors clean so that there is no dust collection in the surroundings.
Get an annual flu shot for your kid. Refill the prescription on time. Never let your child leave home without their inhaler. Provide a backup inhaler to the school authorities just in case.
If you notice signs of childhood asthma during the kid’s playtime, have him/her use an inhaler 20 minutes before the playtime so that the airways remain open.

Pediatrician at Home by First Response Healthcare

For parents concerned about early signs of asthma in children, First Response Healthcare offers a convenient pediatrician at home service. This service provides expert pediatric care directly at your doorstep, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation and management of the symptoms without the need for a clinic visit. Our skilled pediatricians deliver personalized care and guidance, helping you closely monitor and address any respiratory concerns your child may face. With professional medical support available in the comfort of your home, FRH makes managing your child’s asthma simpler, more effective, and stress-free.

Conclusion: Detecting Signs of Asthma Early

It is crucial to understand the signs of childhood asthma early. You can then prevent the symptoms from worsening further.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What should I do if I suspect my child has asthma?

If you notice signs of childhood asthma in your child, consult a doctor immediately for an assessment. The doctor may conduct tests and prescribe medication to manage the condition. In the meantime, track your child’s symptoms, avoid known triggers like smoke or strong odors, and closely monitor their breathing.

Q. How can I differentiate between asthma and other respiratory conditions?

Asthma typically causes recurring wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath, often triggered by allergens, exercise, or cold air, and usually, these symptoms improve with an inhaler. Colds and flu come with fever, sore throat, and a wet cough, usually clearing up in 1-2 weeks. Pneumonia involves high fever, chest pain, a productive cough, and rapid breathing, confirmed by a chest X-ray. Allergies cause sneezing and nasal congestion without wheezing. Always consult a doctor if unsure for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Q. What are the best practices for managing asthma in children at home?

To manage the symptoms at home, make sure your child takes their controller medication daily, uses a rescue inhaler during attacks, avoids known triggers, and follows the Asthma Action Plan from their doctor. Keep track of their symptoms regularly and consult with the doctor routinely to stay on top of their care.

Early Signs of Childhood Asthma: What Parents Should Watch For

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