|  | Conditions Treatments | Asthma

Breathing Problems in Childhood

Children often suffer from a variety of respiratory problems because their respiratory systems are extremely susceptible to infection. Many of the common causes of breathing difficulty are viral and will heal in time; however, asthma can remain with a child throughout her lifetime. Breathing difficulties in children are often more serious than those in adults because of children's small size and immune systems that are not fully developed.

  1. Asthma

    • Asthma is a condition characterized by swelling and inflammation of the airways leading to the lungs that results in breathing difficulty. Asthma is often found in children who have a family history of asthma or suffer from allergies. Living in areas of high pollution can also contribute to the development of asthma. During an asthma flare-up, children may experience tightness in their chest, wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. Flare-ups are often brought on by allergy seasons or exercise. Inhalers can be used during an attack to help aid breathing and reduce inflammation. Asthma is a lifelong condition for which there is no cure; however, it can be managed effectively with prescribed medications.

    Croup

    • Croup is a respiratory condition characterized by a harsh, barking cough that is commonly found in young children, especially during the fall and winter. Croup is caused by the same virus that causes the common cold and often develops along with a cold. Croup causes narrowing of the airways, which can lead to breathing difficulty in children. Breathing rate may be increased during the condition, and children may have increased difficulty breathing when lying down. Breathing moist or cool air often helps during an attack of croup. Severe cases may require medication to help decrease swelling of the airways.

    Bronchiolitis

    • Bronchiolitis is the inflammation of the bronchioles, the small airways leading to the lungs. The airways swell and fill with mucus, resulting in breathing difficulty. This condition normally occurs within the first two years of life because a child's bronchioles are much smaller than an adults, making them more prone to blockage. Day care enrollment and exposure to cigarette smoke increase the likelihood of children developing bronchiolitis. Bronchiolitis is commonly caused by the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

    RSV

    • Respiratory syncytial virus, commonly referred to as RSV, is a common cause of respiratory issues in infants and children. Although the virus can affect adults, it generally causes only symptoms similar to that of the common cold in adults. In children, the virus can lead to more serious respiratory conditions such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia. RSV is most common in the months from fall to spring, although infection generally lasts only about one week. RSV cannot be treated with antibiotics because of its viral nature and will generally resolve itself. More serious bouts of RSV or more serious conditions that develop from RSV infection may require hospitalization, especially in very young infants.

Asthma - Related Articles