ASTHMA IN CHILDREN

What Is Asthma? Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airway. It is a  reversible condition in which the airway is narrowed or obstructed because of inflammation, increase in mucus production and contraction of muscles in the airway. An asthma attack is an abrupt and/or progressive worsening of symptoms of shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, or some combination of these symptoms. Although physicians don't know the main cause of asthma, there are identified environmental factors associated with the development of asthma and the tendency to develop asthma is often inherited.

What Causes Asthma? In the majority of children with asthma, there is evidence of exposure and development of sensitivity to allergens. The most common allergens causing asthma in children are inhalants such as house dust mites, indoor molds, the fur/feather of animals, and airborne pollens from trees, grasses  and weeds. Food occasionally causes asthma, especially in infants. In the majority of cases of childhood asthma, the onset of asthma occurs by the seventh year. It is not necessary for children to be allergic to anything to have asthma. In addition to allergic reactions other things can trigger or aggravate asthma. These include viral respiratory tract infections, rapid changes in temperature or humidity, common air pollutants in cities, smoke from tobacco or wood, paint fumes, cockroaches and exercise. Drugs such as aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatories can also trigger asthma.

What Are Its Signs And Symptoms? Some of the signs and symptoms of an asthma attack include wheezing, rapid breathing, difficulty in breathing, sweating, an increased heart rate, a feeling of chest tightness, and coughing, especially at night, early morning, and with activity. When the asthma is severe and your child is not getting enough oxygen he or she may seem restless, apprehensive, fatigued, drowsy, or have pallor or blueness on the lips and finger tips. If you see any of these later signs, call the emergency department immediately.

With What Can Asthma Be Confused? Asthma can be confused with upper airway infections such as allergic rhinitis and sinusitis. Anything that obstructs the airways can also mimic asthma. Obstructive causes include a foreign body, excess mucus, aspiration from a swallowing mechanism dysfunction, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and recurrent cough not due to asthma.

What Can You Do For Asthma? Because asthma is associated with environmental factors, to prevent further asthma attacks it is important to reduce exposure to factors that trigger or aggravate asthma. These might involve lifestyle modifications that are best discussed with your doctor. The next thing to do is to educate yourself about your child’s medications by communicating with the pediatrician or allergist. There are two main types of asthma medications: those that act rapidly to relieve flare-ups including  bronchodilators (beta-2 agonists, anticholinergics, and theophylline) and those that are used to prevent asthma attacks, including drugs with an anti-inflammatory action (e.g. corticosteroids, cromolyn, and nedocromil). Currently there is no cure for asthma but it can be controlled with prescription medications that may help to prevent or relieve symptoms, and by learning ways to manage episodes. It is important to know that over-the-counter medications, home remedies, and herbal combinations are not substitutes for prescription asthma medication. Using any of these as a substitute for prescribed asthma medication during an asthma attack can be dangerous and even fatal.