Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting children, but recognizing the signs can sometimes be challenging. Symptoms may come and go, vary in severity, and often overlap with other childhood illnesses. In addition, children may not be able to describe what they are feeling.
Understanding the warning signs, common triggers and treatment options can help parents work with their child's healthcare provider to keep symptoms under control and reduce the risk of serious flare-ups, according to Erin Nozetz, MD, a pediatrician with Northeast Medical Group.
How is asthma diagnosed in children?
Asthma is primarily diagnosed based on a child's medical history and symptoms. Rather than relying on a single test, your healthcare provider will gather detailed information from you and your child about any breathing issues, patterns related to symptoms and possible triggers.
Common asthma symptoms tend to recur over time and often improve with asthma treatments such as inhalers and steroids. For children older than 5, a lung specialist may perform breathing tests to help confirm the diagnosis and monitor how well asthma is controlled over time.
What are some of the most common signs of asthma?
Common asthma symptoms include one or more of the following:
- Persistent or recurring cough
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty keeping up with physical activity or exercise
- Chest tightness or discomfort
Do signs of asthma differ by age group?
Asthma symptoms are generally similar across all age groups, but younger children may show additional signs of breathing difficulty.
Infants and toddlers are more likely to experience retractions, which occur when a child is working hard to breathe. During retractions, the skin between the ribs, below the rib cage, or above the neck and collarbone sink inward with each breath.
Are there less obvious signs parents should watch for?
Asthma symptoms can occur both during the day and at night. Monitoring your child’s night-time coughing is very important, but more challenging because you might be asleep. A baby monitor in your child’s room that can be played back in the morning can help.
When should parents see a doctor?
You should contact your child's healthcare provider anytime you have concerns about your child's breathing or notice recurring symptoms such as coughing, wheezing or shortness of breath.
When should parents seek immediate medical attention?
Call 9-1-1 or seek emergency care immediately if your child is struggling to breathe or is unable to catch their breath.
What are common asthma triggers?
There are many triggers for asthma, and not every child is triggered by the same things. Some of the most common triggers include:
- Viral infections, such as colds
- Indoor allergens, including dust mites, mold and cockroaches
- Indoor irritants, such as tobacco smoke and air fresheners
- Outdoor allergens, including grass and pollen
- Outdoor pollutants, such as wildfire smoke and air pollution
- Emotional stress or strong emotions
- Exercise and physical activity
How can parents manage asthma at home?
Regular follow-up visits with a healthcare provider are the best way to ensure that your child’s asthma is under control. Your provider will develop a personalized Asthma Action Plan for your child that outlines:
- Any medications and how to use them
- Steps to take when symptoms worsen
- Strategies for avoiding your child’s asthma triggers
Parents should keep a copy of the action plan at home and provide copies to their child's school, daycare or other caregivers to ensure consistent asthma management.
