What Are the Causes of Asthma & Its Effects on Children?

Asthma is a respiratory disease that affects both children and adults. According to the Centers for Disease and Control, asthma affects 7 million children.

Symptoms

• According to the National Institutes of Health, symptoms of asthma include difficulty breathing, wheezing, tightness in the chest and coughing.

Causes

• Asthma is caused by inflammation of the airways. Some things asthma symptoms can be triggered by include tobacco smoke, cold weather, dust or mold.

Effects

• A child with asthma may have a persistent cough and trouble breathing and may have to miss school or refrain from playing sports depending on the severity of the asthma.

Treatment

• Asthma is treated by long-term control and quick-relief medications. Long-term control medications are used to prevent symptoms and quick-relief medications are used during an asthma attack.

Prognosis

• Children who use their asthma medications can often lead a normal life.