Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Asthma in Children

Worried that your child might have asthma? Our team at Newport Children Medical Group at Mission of Mission Viejo, CA, share potential signs to look for in this guide. 

Asthma in Children: Signs and Symptoms

 Asthma is a respiratory issue that plagues many children. Unfortunately, it is potentially fatal – but it doesn’t have to be. You can learn how to safely manage an attack and help your child live a healthy, active lifestyle, but all that begins with knowing the signs and receiving a proper diagnosis. Below, the team at Newport Children Medical Group at Mission in Mission Viejo, CA, shares the common signs and other important information so that parents know when it’s time to talk to their pediatrician.

Recognizing Asthma

 This respiratory condition causes the bronchial tubes to become narrow and inflamed, which leads to symptoms such as the following. 

• Strange sounds when breathing: Wheezing and whistling sounds can happen anytime the airways are irritated, such as with a cold or during physical activity. However, if you hear these sounds when your child breathes and isn’t sick, it’s wise to have them checked out. 
• Persistent cough: Children with asthma tend to cough often, even when they aren’t sick. Many have trouble going to sleep at night due to frequent coughing. Others cough more in the mornings. 
• Chest tightness: Feeling tightness in the chest is common for children with respiratory issues. If your child is very young and doesn’t yet know the difference between their chest and stomach, they might complain of a tummy ache, instead. Have them point out where it hurts or feels tight any time they have a complaint. 
• Difficulty breathing: Everyone has trouble from time to time feeling like they’re getting enough air, especially when they’re active. However, a child with asthma might have trouble breathing at any time during the day or night. 

 Though these symptoms could be caused by a cold or other potential illness, it never hurts to be extra vigilant. If anything seems abnormal or concerning about your child or their breathing, visit your pediatrician as soon as possible. 

If your child is displaying any signs of asthma or another breathing issue, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with the team at Newport Children Medical Group at Mission. You can reach our Mission Viejo, CA, office at (949) 364-8700.