Asthma in Children

Also known as: allergic asthma, occupational asthma, exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB), exercise-induced asthma (EIA).

What is asthma?

Asthma is a breathing disorder that involves the airways becoming inflamed. This causes the muscles around the airways to tighten and swell and cause trouble breathing. It’s usually the result of some form of “trigger” that causes the asthma episode.

What causes asthma?

Asthma can occur for a number of reasons. Some people have allergic asthma, where an allergen like dust, mold or pollen triggers asthma. Viral respiratory infections are a frequent triggering factor. Exercise-induced asthma is another form, where exertion from exercise leads to breathing problems.

What are the signs and symptoms of asthma?

The warning signs and symptoms for asthma include:

  • Chest tightness and pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Coughing and wheezing
  • Difficulty sleeping

What are asthma care options?

Asthma can be managed with a combination of controller and quick-relief (or rescue) medications. Controller medications can be pills or inhalers that people take daily to manage.


Reviewed by: Antonio M Rodriguez, MD

This page was last updated on: July 08, 2021 03:44 PM

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