Asthma in children

Not asthma

Premature babies are prone to wheezing because of their small airways. Babies whose pregnant mothers smoked also may have wheezing or respiratory symptoms.

Infants often have several upper airway viral infections that cause wheezing or breathing difficulties during their first year. This is normal and helps to boost protective antibodies if antibiotics are not given.

All of these symptoms are likely to resolve as the child's airways grow, and are different to classical asthma causes and symptoms.

Diagnosing asthma

Childhood asthma is often triggered by viral infections and by house dust mite allergen, pets or pollen. It is important to remember that some children with asthma may not have symptoms that match the severity of their inflamed airways. Often they prefer not to run around because their breathing is inadequate, so classical asthma symptoms will not become obvious.

If a child is reluctant to run or gets easily short of breath, they should be assessed by a doctor with paediatric training. An asthmatic child who is unusually quiet may be having trouble breathing but instinctively keeps very quiet. They still need urgent medical attention.

Managing asthma

A child should be able to live a normal, active life with appropriate asthma management. Regular exercise will encourage strong lungs and airways.

Educating the child about asthma and encouraging them to take part in an individual self-management plan is vital.

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