Asthma in Children | Complete Guide for Parents & Carers

Asthma in Children: Complete Guide

Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting children in Australia. Understanding how it works, recognising early signs, and knowing how to manage it can make a significant difference in your child's health and quality of life. This guide provides practical, parent-friendly information on childhood asthma, from symptoms to treatment and emergency care.

What is Childhood Asthma?

This is a condition that affects the airways in the lungs, causing them to become inflamed and narrowed, which can make breathing difficult. In children, asthma often presents as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath, especially during physical activity or at night.

Unlike adult asthma, which may develop later in life, childhood asthma often begins in early childhood and can be influenced by genetic and environmental factors.

Causes of Asthma in Children

Asthma in children can be triggered by various factors:

• Genetics: A family history of asthma, eczema, or hayfever increases the risk.

• Environmental exposures: Exposure to tobacco smoke, air pollution, or allergens like dust mites and pet dander.

• Respiratory infections: Early childhood respiratory infections can increase the risk of developing asthma.

Understanding these factors can help in managing and potentially reducing the risk of asthma in children.

Can kids grow out of asthma?

Some children may experience a reduction or disappearance of asthma symptoms as they grow older, particularly if their asthma was mild. However, many children continue to have asthma into adolescence and adulthood. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are essential to monitor and manage the condition effectively.

Symptoms of Asthma in Children

Early Warning Signs

Recognising these signs early can lead to prompt treatment and better asthma control.

• Frequent coughing, especially at night or during physical activity.

• Wheezing or a whistling sound when exhaling.

• Shortness of breath or rapid breathing.

• Chest tightness or discomfort.

Severe Symptoms

Seek immediate medical attention if your child:

• Has difficulty breathing or is unable to speak in full sentences.

• Exhibits blue lips or fingernails.

• Shows signs of exhaustion or confusion.

These could be signs of a severe asthma attack requiring urgent care.

Diagnosing Asthma in Children

Diagnosing asthma in children can be challenging, especially in those under 5 years old, as they may have difficulty performing breathing tests. Doctors often rely on:

• Medical history: Reviewing symptoms and family history.

• Physical examination: Listening to the lungs and checking for signs of wheezing.

• Response to asthma medications: Observing improvement with reliever medications.

For children over 6 years old, lung function tests may be used to confirm the diagnosis.

Preparing for your GP diagnosis appointment

• Keep a symptom diary: Note when symptoms occur and their severity.

• Record triggers: Identify potential asthma triggers like allergens or infections.

• List medications: Include any current medications your child is taking.

• Prepare questions: Write down any concerns or questions you have about your child's health.

Diagnosing Asthma in children under 5 years of age

For children under 5, diagnosis is primarily based on:

• Symptom patterns: Recurring cough, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.

• Response to treatment: Improvement with asthma medications.

• Exclusion of other conditions: Ruling out other causes of respiratory symptoms.

Trial treatments may be used to assess how your child responds to asthma medications.

Diagnostic Tests

For children over 6 years old, the following tests may be conducted:

• Spirometry: Measures lung function and airflow.

• Peak flow monitoring: Assesses the maximum speed of exhalation.

• Allergy testing: Identifies potential allergens triggering asthma symptoms in specific circumstances.

These tests help in confirming the diagnosis and tailoring treatment plans.

Post diagnosis follow-ups are crucial

Regular follow-up appointments with your GP are crucial to:

• Monitor asthma control: Assess the effectiveness of current treatment.

• Adjust medications: Modify treatment plans as needed.

• Update action plans: Ensure asthma action plans are current and effective.

Consistent follow-ups help in managing asthma effectively and preventing complications.

Treatment Options for Paediatric Asthma

Asthma treatment typically involves:

• Relievers: Medications like salbutamol provide quick relief by relaxing airway muscles.

• Preventers: Inhaled corticosteroids reduce airway inflammation over time. The oral non-steroidal montelukast is a preventer used in certain circumstances.

• Combination inhalers: Combine relievers and preventers for comprehensive management.

• Biologic Therapies: Target specific pathways in the immune system for severe cases in older children who have not responded to other therapies.

Using a spacer with inhalers is recommended to ensure medication reaches the lungs effectively. In young children, a face-mask with a spacer is needed.

Managing Asthma in Children

Identifying and Avoiding Triggers

Common asthma triggers include:

• Allergens: Dust mites, pet dander, pollen.

• Respiratory infections: Colds, flu, and other viral infections.

• Environmental factors: Tobacco smoke, air pollution, and strong odors.

Implementing strategies to avoid these triggers can help in managing asthma symptoms.

Creating an Asthma Action Plan

• Daily management: Medications and their dosages.

• Recognising worsening symptoms: Signs that asthma is not well-controlled.

• Emergency instructions: Steps to take during an asthma attack.

Regularly review and update the action plan with your healthcare provider.

Managing other conditions that cause asthma-like symptoms

Conditions like hayfever and eczema can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Managing these conditions through appropriate treatments can improve overall asthma control.

Managing Asthma at School or Daycare

Informing school or daycare staff about your child's asthma includes:

• Providing an updated asthma action plan.

• Ensuring access to medications: Inhalers and spacers.

• Educating staff: Training on recognising and responding to asthma symptoms.

Open communication with educators ensures a supportive environment for your child.

Emergency Preparedness

Recognising an Asthma Attack

Signs of an asthma attack include:

• Increased coughing or wheezing.

• Difficulty breathing or speaking.

• Chest tightness or discomfort.

Early recognition allows for prompt action to manage the attack.

Asthma First Aid

Steps to take during an asthma emergency:

1. Sit the child upright: Keep them calm and still.

2. Administer reliever medication: Use a blue/grey inhaler with a spacer. Take one puff at a time, with four breaths after each puff.

3. Wait 4 minutes: If no improvement, repeat step 2.

4. Seek medical help: If symptoms persist, call 000 for an ambulance.

Having a written asthma action plan can guide these steps effectively.

When to Seek Emergency Help

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• Symptoms worsen rapidly.

• Child becomes exhausted or confused.

• Reliever medication provides little or no relief.
  
  

Prompt action can prevent severe complications.

See a GP about your child’s asthma today

If your child shows signs of asthma or you’re concerned about their breathing, book an appointment with your GP through Myhealth today. Early diagnosis and proper management can help your child live a healthy, active life.

Don’t wait. Take action now!