Asthma Specialist

What is asthma?

Asthma is a common medical condition in which airways narrow and swell, making breathing more difficult. Asthma could be nothing more than a minor nuisance in some children, but other times it can cause life-threatening shortness of breath. If your child struggles to breathe deeply, see the Astoria Pediatric PC specialists for an evaluation.

What are the symptoms of asthma?

Common signs and symptoms of asthma include:

• Chest pain or tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Trouble sleeping
• Difficulty breathing during exercise

Asthma might worsen with exercise, respiratory viruses, or exposure to dust, gasses, fumes, or polluted air.

What are the risk factors for asthma?

The exact cause of asthma isn’t entirely clear, but some factors appear to increase your child’s risk of having it. Examples include:

• Excess body weight
• Allergies
• Family history of asthma
• Smoking or second-hand smoke exposure
• Exposure to fumes, pollution, exhaust, or chemicals

While there’s no sure-fire way to prevent asthma, you can reduce the frequency or severity of asthma attacks by ensuring your child breathes in clean air and seeking asthma treatment.

How does my child’s provider diagnose asthma?

An Astoria Pediatric PC specialist reviews your child’s symptoms, medical history, medication regimen, and lifestyle habits to diagnose asthma and develop an effective treatment plan. They encourage your child to complete a series of lung-function tests by having them breathe into specialized devices before and after using an inhaler.

Your child’s provider may also recommend completing allergy testing, X-rays, or other imaging tests to identify the underlying causes of breathing problems. 

How is asthma treated?

Inhalers are the most common asthma treatment. Your child might need an inhaler when they experience trouble breathing, especially during exercise. It’s important for them to keep an inhaler with them at all times.

Other asthma treatments include using an air conditioner to reduce airborne allergens, reducing dust and pet dander in your home, and using a dehumidifier when necessary. Encourage your child to eat nutritious foods, get regular exercise, and maintain an ideal body weight.

Call the office or use the online booking tab today to learn more about the asthma treatments available at Astoria Pediatric PC.