Asthma Risk In Children

Limit the asthma risk in children

Asthma is a growing problem in children. It is the leading cause of chronic illness, and affects at least 10 percent of children in the United States. Many of these children have their first symptom before they even enter school, and the number of cases is on the rise.

So what is increasing this asthma risk? Doctors do not know, but there are several factors contributing to it.

Risk Factors

There are several things that contribute to the asthma risk in children. Having allergies themselves or a family history of asthma or allergies is a main one. If they have frequent respiratory infections or are exposed to tobacco smoke that is another risk. And being born at a low birth weight, being male, being black, and being raised in a low-income environment are also risks.

Increase In The Number Of Cases

Asthma risk seems to be going up, and no one knows why. There is some thought that children are being exposed to more allergens and irritants such as air pollution, dust, and secondhand smoke. The increases in vaccines and sanitary methods could be keeping children from building up a proper immune system to prevent asthma. And some doctors believe that a decrease in the rate of breastfeeding could play a role as well.

Does My Child Have Asthma?

There are certain asthma risks and symptoms that you can look for to see if your child has asthma. Watch for coughing spells while playing or sleeping. See if your child has less energy than other children of the same age. Rapid breathing, wheezing, loss of breath, and complaining of the chest hurting can all be symptoms.

It is important to remember that not all children will present the same symptoms to the same severity, and these symptoms can also be signs of a less serious medical condition. Only your doctor can diagnose asthma in your child.

How Is My Child Diagnosed?

If your child has asthma risk and is displaying signs of asthma, it is important to take him or her to the doctor for an evaluation. It can be difficult to diagnose younger children, particularly infants.

The doctor will want a history of breathing problems that your child has had, as well as any family history of breathing problems. He or she will then do a physical exam to listen for breathing issues.

Your doctor may also order a chest x-ray or pulmonary function tests to see how much air is inhaled and exhaled and at what rate. However, these tests often cannot be done in children younger than school age, so for infants and toddlers most doctors rely on history and symptoms for their diagnosis.

If your child has asthma risks and/or the doctor believes that your child has asthma, you may have to undergo other testing to identify the triggers. These may include blood tests and x-rays as well as allergy testing.

Your doctor will then use this information to choose medication and a form of treatment for your child. For best results it is important to take all medication as directed, and let your doctor know if the treatment does not seem to be working.

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