Asthma typically begins in childhood with many exhibiting symptoms very early on. Although the condition can affect your child's ability to take part in play, their doctor can develop a plan to manage their asthma and to allow them to take part in just about every activity as their peers. You can learn more about how to spot the signs of asthma in your child by reaching out to your local Houston, TX, pediatricians of Peekaboo Pediatrics, Dr. Heena Thakkar and Dr. Shilpa Pankaj.

Asthma Symptoms

When you take a breath what normally happens is that the air you breathe filters out into your airways and reaches your lungs. From there, small passages within your lungs allow them to deliver oxygen into your bloodstream and onto the rest of your body.

But if your child is experiencing asthma symptoms what is happening inside is that the airways swell and the muscles around them tighten causing these to drastically reduce the amount of air that can pass through, which is what can result in an asthma attack.

Asthma attacks are characterized by rapid breathing, shortness of breath, and tightness in the chest. These can come after moments of physical activity, but can also manifest at night affecting your child's sleep with either coughing or breathing difficulty.

Not everyone's symptoms will be the same always but these are important signs that your child may need to seek a diagnosis from their pediatrician.

Treatment for Child Asthma in Houston, TX

There is currently no cure for asthma but with treatment, your child's pediatrician can help them better manage their asthma and reduce their symptoms. If their asthma is triggered by allergies then the doctor will likely prescribe medication to target them, but to prevent exposure to other outside factors that can also trigger asthma they will need your help as well. Their pediatrician can guide you about all the different ways you can help.

Inhalers can be used to treat sudden asthma symptoms, or used preemptively before taking part in exercise or sports.

If you are concerned about your child's possible asthma symptoms you can schedule a consultation in Houston, TX, with Dr. Thakkar and Dr. Pankaj of Peekaboo Pediatrics by dialing (713) 861-4800.