Asthma
Almost five million children have asthma, and the numbers are increasing. Here's Dr. Firstname M. Lastname, a Pediatrician with Medical Center/Hospital, to tell us more about this common childhood medical condition.
What is asthma?
Asthma is chronic lung disease in which the air passages are oversensitive. During an asthma attack, the airways narrow in response to some form of irritation or trigger. These triggers can include pollen, mold, dust mites, smoke or odors or fumes, cold air or exercise.
Is asthma a serious condition?
Definitely. Without proper management, it can be life threatening. The smallest airways in a child's lungs are about as thick as a string of thread. They're very small. If these become at all restricted by tightening muscles, breathing becomes difficult.
How do you treat patients with asthma?
Long-term control medications help prevent or reduce inflammation of the airways. Quick-relief or rescue medications, like an inhaler, are designed to provide immediate but temporary relief when an attack first begins. Using a peak flow meter can help a child monitor their breathing.