Asthma in Children

What Causes Asthma?

Asthma flares or “attacks” can be triggered by different things. Potential triggers include:

• Illness
• Pollutions
• Dust
• Mold
• Animals
• Pollens
• Cigarette smoke
• Cold air
• Exercise

Exercise is a common trigger of asthma especially in cold air. Usually, symptoms don't appear until the child has been exercising hard for at least five minutes. With proper treatment, children with asthma can be physically active.

Different people have different asthma triggers. Once you know the triggers you can help your child avoid them. If you're not sure what triggers your child’s symptoms, write down what your child was doing and where they were when symptoms occurred.

Removing asthma triggers, prevention, and early treatment of symptoms are the best ways to keep your child healthy.

Symptoms of asthma are not the same for every child. Some children have symptoms nearly every day and need to take medications. Other children may only have occasional symptoms, 1-2 times a week.

• Symptoms may include:
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath (having a hard time breathing)
• Rapid breathing (breathing very fast)
• Anxiety
• Chest tightness

If your child has is experiencing any of the above symptoms, please contact their physician.

How Can I Help My Child Prevent Asthma?

Reducing risks is the best way to prevent asthma. Here are some of the ways to do that:

• Avoid triggers: Common triggers include dust, mold, animals, pollens, cigarette smoke, or cleaning products.
• Avoid smoke and vape exposure: Secondhand smoke and vape chemicals are the most common irritants for people with asthma. Both can lead to permanent lung damage.
• Control dust and mold in the home, especially your child’s bedroom: Cover their mattress and pillows with protective dust-mite-proof covers. Vacuum frequently and remove carpeting and rugs in bedroom, if possible.
• Allergy treatment and testing: Not all kids with allergies have asthma, but allergies are common in those with asthma and can trigger attacks. Talk with child’s physician about safe allergy remedies.
• Have a written asthma action plan: Your child’s provider can discuss instructions on how to best manage your child’s asthma and provide a written plan to follow.
• Take your medications regularly: Control medicines can prevent asthma attacks. Continue to give them as recommended even when your child is doing well.
• Carry your child’s rescue medications: Rescue inhalers or nebulizers can give quick relief of symptoms. Have them readily available.
• Recognize the warning signs of attacks: Know what to do in an emergency, and help your child learn to describe how they are feeling.
• Inform teachers, friends, and family: Make sure everyone in your child’s circle is aware of your child’s condition and to look for signs.

Asthma Program at Lurie Children's

Our experts provide thorough evaluation and comprehensive testing for asthma, including education on avoiding common triggers and extensive treatment options.

Learn more about our Asthma Program