Asthma in Children

Asthma is a chronic disease that develops as a result of a child's sensitivity to certain conditions and substances. The substances that cause this sensitivity are called ‘triggers’, and after exposure to them, the following chain of changes occurs in the child's airways:

• The tissues lining the airways swell and become edematous.
• The muscles around the airways tighten and stiffen.
• Thicker mucus (phlegm) forms in the airways.

As a result of these changes, the airways narrow and it becomes harder for air to move in and out of the lungs. This leads to the related signs and symptoms.

What Causes Asthma in Children?

Although the exact cause is unknown, family predisposition appears to be important. Environmental factors, infections and chemicals may play a role.

Which Children Are at Risk?

• Children aged 5–17,
• A history of asthma in family members
• An allergic predisposition
• Exposure to cigarette smoke,
• Air pollution,
• Other accompanying health problems, such as sinus problems or excess weight

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Asthma in a Child?

Complaints can vary from child to child, and their severity can vary from time to time in the same child. Commonly seen signs include:

• Coughing, which may be constant or come and go.
• A whistling sound during breathing (wheezing)
• Labored breathing and shortness of breath,
• Chest tightness,
• Tiredness and fatigue,
• Coughing attacks at night,
• Noisy breathing.

How Is Asthma Diagnosed in a Child?

• Measurement of lung function with a spirometer;
• Peak flow measurement: the amount of air the child blows out during a forceful exhalation is measured.
• Chest X-ray
• Allergy tests (skin tests and measurement of specific antibodies in the blood)

How Should Asthma Be Treated in Children?

Treatment is planned according to the child's complaints, age and general health. Treatment also includes identifying trigger factors and avoiding them.

• Bronchodilator medications: aim to open the narrowed airways and relieve coughing, wheezing and labored breathing.
• Anti-inflammatory medications: aim to reduce inflammation in the airways.
• Anti-leukotriene medications;
• Immunotherapy: aims to relieve asthma attacks in children over the age of 12.

What Are the Complications of Asthma in Children?

When it is not well controlled, asthma in children can lead to:

• Severe asthma attacks,
• Permanent damage to the airways,
• Longer hospital stays,
• Missed school and lost workdays.

How Can Children Be Protected from Asthma?

• Avoid air pollution.
• Stay away from known trigger factors.
• Manage symptoms carefully.
• Follow the treatment as recommended.
• Prepare an asthma action plan.
• Monitor signs and symptoms closely, and know what to do if they get worse.
• Obtain the asthma treatment protocols prepared for each age group (0–14 years, 5–11 years and over 12 years).

When Should I Call My Child's Specialist?

Call your doctor if your child's complaints get worse, especially during:

• Breathing,
• Sleep,
• Walking, or
• Talking.

At İzmir Özel Can Hastanesi and Salihli Özel Can Hastanesi, part of the Can Sağlık group, accurate diagnosis and treatment are provided through the joint evaluation of our Pulmonology and Pediatrics physicians.