Asthma in Toddlers

Asthma in toddlers is generally caused due to certain kinds of chemicals and foods, smoke, dust, pollens and molds. The main reason for the occurrence of this disorder is the problem in the tubes of air which perform the important function of carrying air inside and outside the human lungs. Many times, it might become difficult to find the signs of asthma in toddlers, but by giving proper attention to the health of your toddler, you will be able to detect this disorder at the right time.

Signs and Symptoms

There are many symptoms, which show signs of the toddler suffering from asthma. In case of some toddlers, wheezing cough can be a prominent indicator of asthma. The toddlers, who are suffering from this disorder may show reluctance in doing those activities which require them to make a lot of movement. Walking and playing in a group are some of those activities. If you observe that your toddler is facing breathing problems or shortness of breath, you should bring it to the notice of a pediatrician immediately, to avoid this problem from aggravating, as this can be a symptom of asthma.

In most cases, the toddlers seem to dislike physical activities that are strenuous such as running and playing games with other children as they have breathing problems. This is accompanied with other asthma symptoms such as difficulty in breathing, flared nostrils, inability to feed well due to breathing distress and muscle retraction. If the sleeping toddler appears to exhibit rapid breathing it is time for the parents rush him to the nearest emergency room, as this might be a warning sign that his condition is worsening. Pain in the chest and tightness in the chest can also be symptoms of asthma, according to several medical researchers. Sweating, difficulty in speaking, retraction of muscles, rapid breathing and tightening of the muscles are some other symptoms of asthma which should not be ignored.

Causes of Asthma in Toddlers

There are many causes for asthma in toddlers and it is very essential that parents should be well aware of them to prevent this disorder from affecting their child. Hereditary factors are the prime causes of asthma in toddlers. This means that if a family member of the child suffers from this disorder, than it might affect the child too. Environmental pollution, frequent exposure to cigarette smoke, changes in the weather, infections such as fever and flu, allergies and eczema are also the main causes of asthma in toddlers. As per the surveys conducted by various health institutions, the risk of toddlers suffering from asthma rises, if the mother continues with her habit of smoking during pregnancy.

The diagnosis of asthma in toddlers at the right time is very important and it is generally done by doctors by making a careful observation and considering the medical records and medical history of the family.

Treatments for Asthma in Toddlers

There are many medicines available for treating asthma in toddlers and they are normally given in the form of liquids. Nebulizers, which are actually machines to help the toddlers breathe well are also used in the treatments for asthma. A lot of care needs to be taken while administering the medications for asthma, as many of them are too strong for the toddlers. The use of inhalers for asthma to broaden the airways and facilitate proper breathing is also a common asthma treatment.

In many cases, it has been observed that the condition of asthma gets cured as the children grow up. However, one should remember that proper care and treatments can help speed up the process of recovery.