How to Spot Asthma in Your Child

Being able to detect the onset of asthma assists parents in supporting a healthy quality of life for their child. If asthma goes undetected, children risk being able to take part in meaningful childhood experiences and daily joys.

Luckily, there are telltale signs that can help you identify whether or not your child is suffering from asthma symptoms. If you’re looking to learn more about childhood asthma, and how symptoms can affect your child or children you know, continue reading.

Helpful Facts Regarding Childhood Asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory illness that creates difficulty breathing for children and adults. Childhood asthma, as well as asthma in adults, induces labored breath based on variables such as environment, genetics, and early exposure to certain infections.

Although childhood asthma may be daunting for parents and children, the disorder is highly common. According to the Society of Pediatric Psychology over 8% of children in the United States experience childhood asthma.

This statistic makes asthma the most common chronic childhood health ailment. The good news is, there are a variety of treatment options available to families navigating childhood asthma.

Detecting Childhood Asthma Symptoms

Staying informed on childhood healthcare can help you create positive experiences for your child. When it comes to childhood asthma symptoms, there are a variety of behaviors and patterns to be aware of.

Here are some childhood asthma symptoms to look out for in your child's daily life.

• Coughing: Excessive coughing could be a sign that your child is struggling with asthma. If your child’s cough is overly persistent, occurs early in the morning or late at night, or after exercise, these may be signs of childhood asthma.
• Wheezing: If your child exhibits a high-pitched wheeze while breathing, laughing, or communicating, they could be experiencing asthma symptoms. Wheezing may also sound like a sharp whistle noise.
• Chest Tightness: If your child expresses that their tummy hurts, they may be trying to explain that their chest feels tight and constricted. This is a common symptom that may indicate childhood asthma.
• Difficulty Breathing: Asthma can create irregular breathing patterns. If your child’s breathing is labored, they lose their breath while playing, or they use their shoulders to breathe, these may be signs of asthma.

Paying attention to these behaviors and symptoms will help you determine whether or not your child is suffering from asthma.

Childhood Asthma Treatment

Discovering that your child is experiencing asthma can be worrisome. However, there are a few methods of treatment that can aid symptoms.

There are three primary treatment options used. Let’s cover each one and what they entail.

• First Aid: Different devices can be used during the onset of an asthma attack to help relax the muscles and ease breathing. These devices include inhalers, bronchodilators, and nebulizers.
• Asthma Medication: Taking prescription asthma medications can help regulate and decrease the activity of symptoms. Consult with a doctor to determine if asthma medication is the right form of treatment for your child.
• Breathing Techniques: Learning breathing techniques can aid your child's breathing during an attack or flare-up. Exercising the diaphragm can help the body take in more air when breathing.

If your child is experiencing asthma, these treatments could benefit them. Talk to their healthcare provider to determine the best form of treatment for your child.

BASS Urgent Care is Here for Your Family

Proper education surrounding health and wellness is essential when taking control of your family’s health. If you’re seeking medical care or are looking for an informative health resource, consider BASS Urgent Care. Book an appointment today or call 925-318-9822 for quality healthcare in the Walnut Creek, California area.