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Asthma In Children

Last Updated on 10 years by Publishing Team

A child who has parents or other close relatives with allergies or asthma, is more likely to develop asthma. You should be able to recognize the signs of asthma in your child and know how to manage it.

Did you know that asthma is twice as common in boys than it is in girls.

Look out for the common asthma symptoms in your children;

  • Persistent coughing, especially at night or after exercise
  • Breathlessness
  • Wheezing (noisy breathing)
  • A tight feeling in their chest.
  • They may complain of discomfort

If other members of your family have asthma, you should be extra careful to watch for warning signs in your child.

The good news is, many children grow out of asthma by the time they reach adulthood.

If you avoid the cause/triggers of asthma, you can usually avoid asthma attacks. The more you know about asthma and management, the more your child can stay fit, healthy and happy.

Managing your child’s asthma

You should take your child to your doctor and discuss a plan for managing their asthma. They can help you;

  • Know the right medication to use
  • Help your child understand how to use their medication
  • Know what to do in an emergency/severe asthma attack
  • Help make your home free of things that may trigger your child’s asthma

TIP: you should always keep a record of your concerns and your child’s symptoms so you can discuss with your doctor, as this can help in the treatment.

AT SCHOOL

  • You should let the teachers and heads of school know your child’s situation
  • Ensure your child always has medication on hand
  • Ensure your child knows how to manage an asthma attack
  • Make sure you can be contacted if needed.

Seek Medical Attention if…

You should see your doctor or go to hospital immediately if your child is showing any of the following signs;

  • Severe trouble breathing (rapid short breath, sucking in their rib muscles or grunting when exhaling)
  • Blue lips of fingertips, darkened skin
  • Chest, neck or throat pain
  • Fever or constant coughing and wheezing
  • Vomiting that won’t allow them to take oral medication

If your child with asthma is uneasy, drowsy or confused