Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease, often associated with allergies. It is characterized by sudden recurring attacks of labored breathing, chest constriction, and coughing. Your child may have asthma if he or she coughs and sounds wheezy when exhaling. Asthma causes the lining of the airways to swell, and mucus to form in the airways. About five percent of American children under age 15 have asthma. It often causes children to miss school and is twice as common in boys as in girls. Most children grow out of asthma by the time they reach adulthood.

Asthma attacks can occur quickly and vary in severity. They range from mild discomfort to life-threatening attacks where breathing may stop. They can last from a few minutes to hours, or even days. Allergic reactions to common substances may cause an attack. Examples are pollen, dust, house mites, mold spores, animal fur, dander, feathers, and cigarette smoke. Exercise, respiratory infections, cold air and certain drugs can provoke an attack. Attacks can often be prevented by avoiding the causes.

Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Sometimes the only symptom of asthma is a steady cough. Early warning signs usually happen long before more serious symptoms occur. They include breathing changes and verbal complaints. Be aware of these signs.

More serious symptoms should receive medical care. Call your healthcare provider if your child has the following symptoms:
* Severe trouble breathing such as rapid breathing, pulling in of the chest wall when inhaling, and grunting when exhaling.
* Dusky blue eyes, fingertips, or skin, or acting uneasy, extremely drowsy, or confused.
* A fever and constant coughing or wheezing which do not respond to prescribed medicines.

Maintain close contact with the healthcare provider who manages your child's asthma. Ask about these aids to asthma management:
* tracking peak flows at home,
* home nebulizer treatments,
* keeping an asthma medication diary,
* how to "asthma proof" your home,
* written standing orders for asthma attacks, and
* written standing orders for upper respiratory infections.

Give medicines according to their directions. Learn as much about asthma as you can. Call your local Lung Association, or (800) 586-4872.

Choose a Health Topic Category Aging Alcohol Problems Allergies Arthritis Back & Neck Problems Blood & Circulatory Problems Bones, Joints & Muscles Brain & Nervous System Cancer Cardiovascular Health Child Health & Development Common Illnesses Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surg Dental Health Diabetes Digestive System Drug Abuse Ear, Nose & Throat Eating Disorders Exercise & Fitness Eyes & Vision Family Planning Foot Care General Health Genetic Disorders & Birth Defects Headaches Health Quizzes Hearing HIV Infections / AIDS Hormonal Disorders Infectious Diseases Medications Men's Health Mental & Emotional Health Nervous System Newborn Care Nutrition Parenting & Family Life Personal Safety Pregnancy & Childbirth Preparing for Emergencies Respiratory Problems Sexually Transmitted Diseases Skin Health Smoking Sports Medicine Stress & How to cope Surgery Symptoms Teenage Concerns Test & Examinations Urinary and Genital Systems Weight Control Women's Health   Go