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Steroids for Asthma in Children

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), as of 2007, 5.6 million children between the ages of 5 and 17 had been diagnosed with asthma, making it the leading chronic illness affecting children in America. When asthma strikes, one of the first prescribed treatments is steroids. Asthma can put a child at serious risk if not treated, but in some cases, the steroid treatment side effects may become just as serious. It is important to discuss the benefits and disadvantages with your doctor before placing your child on inhaled steroids.

  1. Steroids

    • Steroids are given with most health issues that involve the treatment of swelling or inflammation. Since asthma is commonly accompanied by swelling of the airways, inhaled steroids allow the child to breathe easier. The treatment of asthma in children is commonly done through a type of steroid called corticosteroids, administered through an inhaler.

    Common Side Effects

    • Steroid inhalers, like most medications, have side effects that can vary depending on the child. Side effects of corticosteroids can include irritation of the mouth and throat (such as dry mouth or sore throat). In rare cases, thrush (oral candidiasis) may occur. To avoid these side effects, have children rinse their mouth with water after each use of the inhaler. The use of a spacer device may also help prevent some side effects. Other side effects may include an increased blood sugar level, increased blood pressure, fluid retention and mood swings.

    Growth

    • A more serious possible side effect of a child's use of steroids for asthma is growth suppression. According to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, some children may experience a slowing of their growth and development during the use of asthma steroids, but only within the first year of treatment. The child will usually make up this development setback later on in their childhood and should end up the same height regardless. Studies are still being done to determine exactly how much steroids affect child development.

    Osteoporosis

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, the use of steroids can also increase the risk for the development of osteoporosis. The long term use of corticosteroids can slowly cause calcium loss from bones. This can lead to fractures or, in rare cases, the development of osteoporosis.

    Natural Steroids

    • The use of corticosteroids for asthma may also interfere with a child's ability to manufacture natural steroids on his own. Natural hormones are secreted by the adrenal glands and gonads and help the body cope in times of physical or mental stress. Since the level of steroids in the body is higher with the use of corticosteroids, it could cause the body to not produce enough natural hormones for other functions.

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