Is your child wheezing, coughing at night, or extremely fatigued after exercising? If so, they may have childhood asthma, a chronic respiratory condition which constricts the smooth muscle of the airway down into the lungs. Luckily, the eight pediatricians here at Pediatrics of Central Florida in Kissimmee, FL, diagnose and treat asthma so that your child can feel as good as possible!

How does asthma happen?

Asthma has been studied extensively because it affects so many people and causes substantial downtime, emergency room visits, and, yes, even death. Unfortunately, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology says that 8.3 percent of children in the United States suffer from asthma, and each one needs management.

The wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and mucous production typical of asthma may come on suddenly or gradually. Your pediatricians in Kissimmee, FL, cite many asthma triggers and ask both patients and parents to be aware of them and avoid them whenever possible. Triggers include:

• Air pollution
• Tobacco smoke
• Perfumes, laundry additives, and air fresheners
• Pet dander
• Pollen
• Mold
• Dust mites
• Cold weather
• Exercise
• Stress
• Laughing
• Crying
• Colds and flu

Patients work toward better control of their symptoms if they keep a journal of their triggers.

Treating asthma

Asthma can indeed be managed. Your pediatrician diagnoses it by symptoms, chest auscultation, and spirometry (your child will breathe into a special apparatus which measures their output). Additionally, the doctor may order lab work, chest X-rays, and allergy testing.

Following diagnosis, the doctor will help you formulate an asthma action plan to include medications as needed and instructions on what to do if a severe attack occurs. Additionally, be sure to call Pediatrics of Central Florida for a sick visit appointment if your child experiences an asthma attack of any severity more than twice a week.

Finally, be sure that those who spend a fair amount of time with your child understand how to deal with their asthma. This would include their caregivers, teachers, coaches, and school nurse.

Breathing easier

Both you and your child will feel better when asthma is well-controlled, and the professional team here at Pediatrics of Central Florida are always here to help! If you have questions about asthma, please contact one of our four offices. We have two in Kissimmee, one in St. Cloud and one in Orlando. You may access help from a staff member 24/7 at (407) 848-3455.