FAQs About Childhood Asthma

If your child is having trouble catching his or her breath, having chest pain, or coughing a lot, you will want to visit your pediatrician to check for asthma. Although asthma can cause lung inflammation, it is quite common and can be managed.

Here are some questions you may have if your child is diagnosed with asthma.

Will Your Child Always Have Asthma?

Every child is different. Some children outgrow their asthma, while others may have it go away temporarily, only to return sometime in their adult years. If your child doesn't have asthma attacks as much, he or she is more likely to outgrow it, while those who have frequent symptoms will likely need to manage it adulthood as well. If your child is allergic to dander or wheezes a lot, then he or she is less likely to outgrow it.

Is There a Difference Between Childhood Asthma & Adult Asthma?

Childhood asthma and adulthood asthma roughly have the same symptoms. The biggest difference is in frequency. Childhood usually have intermittent symptoms while adults have regular ones. However, the caveat is that children can be more sensitive to their allergen triggers since their immune systems are still developing.

While both children and adults have symptoms that affect their breathing, children with asthma may present more skin-related symptoms, like atopic dermatitis. Lastly, children usually require different medications or management techniques than adults.

Is Asthma Inherited or Is it Triggered by Allergens?

If you or your partner has asthma, your child is more likely to get it. However, this inheritance factor isn't always a factor. The main causes of asthma are irritants that trigger allergies, such as pollen, mold, pet dander, cockroach feces, cold air, or polluted air. Food sensitivities, like peanut or dairy allergies, can also cause asthma symptoms.

Can Your Child Play Sports or Be Active with Asthma?

Yes! Your child can be active as long as he or she has asthma under control and has treatments on hand in case of an attack. Being active is actually good since it can strengthen the lungs. However, your child should avoid endurance sports, like soccer or long-distance running. He or she should also avoid cold-weather sports since breathing can become more difficult in inclement weather. If your child has a coach, it is vital that he or she be made aware of your child's condition and have access to an inhaler.

Talk with your child's pediatrician for more information on managing childhood asthma.


Share