Asthma in Children

Pediatric Asthma

Asthma is a common yet serious respiratory condition that affects children, causing inflammation and narrowing of the airways. At Lee Health, we understand the challenges that come with managing pediatric asthma, and our dedicated respiratory specialists are here to help you navigate every aspect of this condition with the care and compassion you deserve.

Understanding Pediatric Asthma

Asthma is a prevalent yet potentially serious respiratory condition in children, marked by airway inflammation and narrowing. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may include wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and persistent coughing. Recognizing these signs early on is key to managing your child's asthma and ensuring they lead a healthy, active life.

Diagnosing Pediatric Asthma

Accurate diagnosis is key to managing pediatric asthma effectively. Our pediatric specialists use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and techniques to identify asthma and its triggers. Your child's respiratory care team may use several different approaches to ensuring an accurate diagnosis. 

If your child is over the age of five their providers may diagnose asthma by:

• Reviewing Medical History
• Conducting a physical exam to check for wheezing and other abnormal sounds
• Conducting a Lung Function Test such as a Spirometry or peak flow test
• Chest X-Ray or Imaging

If your child is under five years old their providers may diagnose asthma by:

• Looking at medical history to track the frequency of wheezing episodes
• Try asthma medications to see how your child responds
• Discuss family history to identify genetic factors

From detailed medical histories to pulmonary function tests, we ensure a thorough evaluation to accurately diagnose and treat your child's asthma.

Treatment and Management

Managing pediatric asthma requires a combination of medications, lifestyle adjustments, and ongoing monitoring ensuring a proactive approach to your child's asthma management. Our team works with you to identify and avoid common triggers, such as allergens, environmental factors, and respiratory infections. Reducing the risk of an attack through ongoing monitoring is an important part of asthma care. 

Treatment and monitoring plans to support your child's respiratory health throughout their childhood may include:

• Medications: This may include inhalers, bronchodilators, and corticosteroids to control and prevent symptoms.
• Education: Your care team will work with you to ensure you have important information to manage asthma triggers and respond to asthma attacks.
• Support: Regular follow-ups and adjustments to treatment plans as your child grows and their needs change.