Asthma Symptoms in Children

Asthma is a disorder of the lungs caused when the airways (bronchi) in the lungs get inflamed. It is one of the most common conditions experienced by children and infants all over the world. It is easier to diagnose this condition in adults and teens, but, a bit difficult to diagnose it in case of children. Therefore, it is essential to look out for the specific underlying symptoms that help in quick diagnose of the disease.

Causes of Asthma in Children

The exact cause of asthma is unknown. This condition is believed to flare up when the child suffers from common cold, influenza, or any other respiratory disorder. On the other hand, exposure to dust and pollution leads to asthma attack. There are several asthma triggers that lead to this condition like allergens like mites, pollen, mold, exercise, cold air, tobacco smoke, dander, certain medications, etc. When the child suffering from asthma is exposed to any of the above mentioned trigger factors, he/she gets an asthma attack. This occurs when the airways become narrow and the muscles around them contract. This leads to inflammation of the membranes of the inner wall resulting in excess mucus. As a result of this condition, the child tends to breathe at a very faster rate to keep the air flowing in the airways.

On the other hand, there is another type of asthma, known as the exercise induced asthma (EIA). Children suffering from this condition experience symptoms of asthma on exercising. This occurs as the lungs of these children as overly sensitive and cannot adjust to the sudden change in temperature and humidity. While exercising, the child breathes with his mouth, thus inhaling cold air which can trigger off asthma attack.

Symptoms of Asthma in Children

Asthma symptoms range from mild to severe ones. The following are the common or mild asthma symptoms in infants and children.

• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Wheezing
• Tightness in chest
• Chest pain

Apart from these, several other severe symptoms of asthma are observed in case of children. They include:

• Flaring of the nostrils when breathing in
• Interrupted talking
• Agitation
• Frequent coughing spells, specially at night
• Less energy during play
• Retractions in the chest
• Feelings of weakness or tiredness

The symptoms of exercise induced asthma are more or less similar. These symptoms appear within 5 - 10 minutes of starting exercise or playing. The following are the symptoms of exercise induced asthma attack:

• Frequent cough after exercise
• Wheezing and shortness of breath
• Getting tired easily
• Can not play outdoors, exercise continually for more than a few minutes

One of the peculiar factors is that the symptoms become more severe at night. Children tend to cough a lot at night and even experience shortness of breath which can lead to waking at night. These are the early identifying symptoms of asthma that parents should look out for. On the other hand, the cough produces mucus which can be green to yellow in color. However, it is difficult to judge the severity of the condition and hence, it is essential to consult the doctor as early as possible when these symptoms are observed. The doctor will undertake tests to diagnose the presence and severity of the conditions. There is no cure for asthma however, there are several medications, inhalers and nebulizers that help in relieving the symptoms. These can be obtained with the help of doctor's prescription.

Along with medications, a child should be kept away from the trigger factors of asthma. Lastly, children should be taught that it is possible to continue living with asthma by taking proper care. Take care!