|  | Conditions Treatments | Asthma

Signs and Symptoms of Pediatric Asthma

Asthma is a condition that causes a constriction of the airways. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) reports that asthma is the most common form of serious, chronic illness in childhood; the National Institutes of Health also note that asthma rates among children are increasing over time. The symptoms of asthma in children are often different from symptoms in adults.

  1. Night-time Cough

    • Often, children with asthma experience coughing at night that does not subside. According to the National Institutes of Health, this is the only symptom that some children with asthma experience.

    Breathing Problems

    • Respiratory symptoms of pediatric asthma include trouble breathing, respiration that is fast or noisy and shortness of breath, according to the AAAAI. In addition to breathing problems, pediatric asthma can lead to chest congestion and a feeling of tightness in the chest.

    Environmental or Emotional Factors

    • Symptoms of asthma in children are often related to a trigger. An asthma attack may be due to animal hair or dander, medication, weather changes, chemical exposure, dust, physical activity, mold and pollen, tobacco smoke, viral infections as well as strong emotions.

    Emergency Symptoms

    • Many children are hospitalized because of severe asthma symptoms. These may include breathing trouble, a blue color on the lips and face, anxiety caused by the inability to breathe, rapid heart rate, sweating as well as drowsiness and confusion. Immediate treatment should be sought for these symptoms.

Asthma - Related Articles