Symptoms
The most common symptoms of asthma in children are coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. These symptoms may be worse at night or during exercise, and they may be accompanied by chest tightness or pressure. Children with asthma may also experience fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and a decrease in their activity level.
Asthma symptoms can vary from child to child and may be different at different times. Some children may have symptoms every day, while others may only have symptoms occasionally. It is important to pay attention to your child's symptoms and work with their healthcare provider to develop a plan for managing them.
Asthma symptoms can be divided into two categories: persistent (long-term) and intermittent (occasional). Persistent asthma symptoms may include:
- Coughing, especially at night or early in the morning
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Chest tightness or pressure
- Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing)
Intermittent asthma symptoms may include:
- Coughing or wheezing triggered by exercise or respiratory infections
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing during an asthma attack (a sudden, severe episode of asthma symptoms)
It is important to note that children with asthma may not always show obvious symptoms, especially if their asthma is well-controlled. This is why it is important for parents and caregivers to be aware of their child's triggers and to work with their healthcare provider to develop a plan for managing their asthma.
Causes
The exact cause of asthma is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Children who have a family history of asthma, allergies, or eczema are more likely to develop asthma. Other factors that may increase the risk of developing asthma include:
- Exposure to tobacco smoke: Children who are exposed to tobacco smoke are more likely to develop asthma and other respiratory problems.
- Allergens: Allergens such as pollen, mold, and pet dander can trigger asthma symptoms in some children.
- Respiratory infections: Children who have had frequent respiratory infections, such as colds or the flu, may be more likely to develop asthma.
- Environmental factors: Exposure to pollution, cold air, and other environmental irritants may increase the risk of developing asthma.
There are several types of asthma that may affect children, including:
- Allergic asthma: Allergic asthma is triggered by allergens such as pollen, mold, and pet dander. Children with allergic asthma may also have allergies to other substances such as food or medications.
- Non-allergic asthma: Non-allergic asthma is not triggered by allergens, and the cause is often unknown. This type of asthma may be triggered by cold air, exercise, or exposure to irritants such as pollution or tobacco smoke.
- Exercise-induced asthma: Exercise-induced asthma is triggered by physical activity, and it may cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath during or after exercise.
- Occupational asthma: Occupational asthma is caused by exposure to certain substances or conditions in the workplace, such as chemicals or dust. Children whose parents work in occupations that may expose them to asthma triggers, such as farming or manufacturing, may be at increased risk of developing asthma.
- Aspirin-induced asthma: Aspirin-induced asthma is a type of asthma that is triggered by taking aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This type of asthma is more common in adults, but it can also affect children.