Asthma is a condition of the small airways. Children with asthma have sensitive airways that are easily irritated by a number of things called triggers. The triggers cause swelling and inflammation of the lining of the airways and tightening of the muscles around the airways. This makes it hard for air to flow in and out of the lungs.
Facts about asthma
- People of all ages have asthma
- It is the most common chronic disease in children, affecting 1 in 10 children
- Many children who develop asthma, have symptoms that started when they were under five years old
- Asthma runs in families, but many people with asthma have no other family members affected
What are the symptoms of asthma
The symptoms of asthma in children can vary. Young children may have subtle symptoms such as a cough, especially at night, colds going to the chest and shortness of breath with play or exercise. More severe symptoms include chest tightness and difficulty in breathing.
How is asthma diagnosed
Your doctor will take a detailed history and examination of your child. Most children with asthma have had symptoms for a long time. If your doctor suspects asthma, a blowing test (peak flow) will be done to check your lung function. It measures how fast you can blow the air out of the lungs. If it is low asthma can be diagnosed. A more detailed lung function may be necessary to confirm the diagnoses if there is doubt. In children under five, where a peak flow and lung function is not possible, the diagnosis of asthma is more difficult. The diagnosis is usually made from a thorough history and examination, followed by a trial of therapy.
What triggers asthma
The most common triggers are viruses, exercise, allergies to aero-allergens (allergens that we breath in the environment) eg. Pets, dust mites and smoke. If asthma is not well controlled, it may flare up from time to time.
What is the treatment of asthma?
Asthma can’t be prevented or cured. Although many children will outgrow asthma, this is less likely if symptoms are still present after the age of five. The aim of treatment is to keep the lungs healthy so that your child can live a normal life.
The treatment of asthma is in the form of inhaled medication. There are two types of treatment – controllers and relievers.
Controllers (for example Flixotide and Budeflam) are taken regularly to prevent asthma symptoms. The most common controllers are steroids. They reduce the risk of an asthma attack by decreasing the inflammation (swelling) in the lungs. They take about two weeks to start working and must be used every day, even if you are well.
Relievers work immediately by relaxing the muscles of the airways (for example Ventolin and Asthavent). They should only be used when symptoms are present. If they are needed more than twice a week, then your child’s asthma is not well controlled and you should consult with your doctor.
Additional asthma medication
Some children need additional medication to control their asthma. The most common type is combination medication. This is an inhaled steroid and a long acting reliever medication in one device, for example Foxair, Seretide, Serevent or Symbicord. Montelukast (Singulair, Monte-air) is another common asthma medication that may be prescribed. It comes in the form of a tablet or sprinkles. It helps reduce the inflammation in the lungs and is very effective if used together with inhaled steroids.
What are spacers?
A spacer or aerochamber is a plastic holding chamber which all children using inhaled medication should use. It helps to deliver the medication into the lungs more effectively. If your child is older than six they can also start using specially designed breath activated devices. Speak to your doctor to help you chose the best device for your child’s age.
Helpful tips on managing your child’s asthma
To ensure that your child’s asthma is well controlled, treatment should be reviewed at least every 6 months, more often if severe or not well controlled.
- Record your child’s asthma symptoms in a diary. Record the symptoms that your child experiences, during the day and night, whether their sleep is disturbed due to symptoms, and how often they need to take their reliever medication due to symptoms. Providing this information to your child’s doctor will assist in prescribing appropriate medication.
- Have a written asthma action plan. This is a written plan designed especially for your child to help you manage their asthma. It will give you information on what to do if your child’s asthma worsens. It also gives you a clear guide of when to seek medical help. Ask your child’s doctor to write one for you at their next visit.
- To assist children’s schools and daycare staff, it is important they are aware that your child has asthma. You should provide them with access to your child’s reliever medication and spacer device. They should be shown how to administer the medication and given instructions on when and how the medication should be given.
More information
Visit the National Asthma Education Programme online.
