Helping Children Breathe Easier
Pediatric Asthma Management
Children and adults can both suffer from asthma, but children face unique challenges when living with this condition. Asthma causes inflammation in the air passages of the lungs and throat, which narrows the airways and makes it harder for oxygen to reach the lungs. Because children naturally have smaller airways than adults, asthma can be especially serious for them.
About 1 in 10 children live with asthma. It is one of the most common reasons children miss school, visit emergency rooms, or are admitted to hospitals. Research shows that children between ages 1 and 3 account for a large percentage of emergency room visits related to asthma among patients under age 21.
At Capital Area Pediatrics, we take asthma care seriously. Our team can help diagnose asthma, confirm existing diagnoses, and develop personalized asthma action plans. We also educate children and families on recognizing symptoms, avoiding triggers, and using medications correctly to manage symptoms safely.
Understanding Asthma in Children
What Is Asthma?
Asthma is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the inner walls of the airways. This inflammation leads to swelling and narrowing of the air passages, making it harder for air to move in and out of the lungs. Breathing difficulties can worsen when a child is exposed to triggers that increase airway inflammation.
What Is an Asthma Trigger?
A trigger is anything that causes asthma symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, or breathing difficulty. Triggers vary from child to child and may include:
- Common colds or respiratory infections
- Tobacco smoke
- Cold air
- Exercise
- Allergens such as pollen or dust mites
Every child with asthma may react to a different combination of triggers.
Is Asthma Only a Seasonal Illness?
No. While asthma symptoms may worsen during allergy seasons such as spring or fall, asthma can affect children at any time throughout the year. Parents should monitor symptoms year-round and consult their pediatrician if concerns arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common asthma symptoms in children?
Asthma symptoms can vary from child to child, but some common signs include:
- Frequent coughing
- Wheezing or whistling sounds when breathing out
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness or discomfort
- Nighttime coughing
- Difficulty with physical activity or exercise
- Long recovery after respiratory infections
What should I do if my child has these symptoms?
If your child exhibits symptoms of asthma, it is important to schedule an evaluation with your pediatrician. Early diagnosis and treatment can help control daily symptoms and prevent severe asthma attacks. In many cases, pediatricians can manage asthma without requiring a specialist referral.
What happens if my child is diagnosed with asthma?
If a child is diagnosed with asthma, families will work with their pediatrician to create a personalized asthma action plan. This plan includes step-by-step instructions on:
- Which medications to take and when
- How to avoid asthma triggers
- How to manage symptoms between flare-ups
- How to recognize and respond to asthma attacks
Regular follow-up visits throughout the year help monitor progress, adjust treatment, and update the asthma action plan as needed.
How can Capital Area Pediatrics help manage asthma?
Our team helps families learn how to manage asthma by identifying triggers, using long-term control medications, and knowing when to use quick-relief medications during an asthma attack. We provide education and resources to help families feel confident managing asthma at home. We also recommend seasonal flu vaccines to help protect children with asthma from serious complications related to influenza. For more information about our asthma education program and specialty care services, visit our Specialty Services page.