Asthma Attack

Asthma In Children

Asthma in children has become very common; according to recent studies about 16% to 20% of children show symptoms of wheeze and about 2% of them develop chronic asthma. Most of the time asthma in children is caused after some viral infection; if child has allergy to pollen, dust, cold air or chemicals etc any exposure to such allergens trigger asthma and cause bronchi or airways to constrict causing obstruction in breathing. The bronchi of asthma children are very sensitive and become inflamed, swollen and mucous filled which cause chest pain, shortness in breathing and wheezing.

Asthma symptoms in children may vary widely. Some children cough whole night while others suffer with frequent chest colds. Other symptoms like shortness of breath, tightness in chest, increased pulse rate, perspiration, sweating and continuous coughing are also prevalent in children suffering with asthma.

Identifying and diagnosing asthma in infants and young children is very difficult. You need to observe them very carefully for any symptoms like refusing to lie down, drawing of neck muscles and heavy breathing with audible wheezing. They may also refuse for feeding and show irritability. If you notice any of these symptoms in them you must immediately consult doctor for detailed check up.

If asthma is confirmed, parents must take extra care of their children. They must educate themselves about asthma and identify the triggers that cause asthma in their child. Such triggers or stimuli must be avoided under all circumstances and keep a detailed emergency action plan ready with them. Any asthma attack should be attended with full awareness and through both medical and psychological preparation.

Researches show that almost 66% of children diagnosed with asthma lead normal and asthma free life after puberty. However they are at a higher risk of getting affected again if they are over exposed to their triggers and proper care is not taken. Children with exercise induced asthma play sports without any problem after proper medications and can continue with their future ambitions.