Asthma

What is Asthma?

Asthma is the medical term for inflammation of the airways and lungs that can make it difficult for the patient to breathe. Serious attacks can be life threatening. Childhood asthma is the same disease as adult asthma, although it can affect children differently. Attacks are triggered more easily in children, and it’s often more difficult to determine what the triggers are. 

There is currently no cure for asthma, but it is very manageable with a variety of medications and treatments. If you think your child may be suffering from asthma, talk to your pediatrician about it. Schedule an appointment at Advocare Haddon Pediatric Group or call (856) 547-7300 to make an appointment at the Haddon Heights office or (856) 294-5600 for the Mullica Hill office. 

Asthma Symptoms

If your child is exhibiting one or more of these symptoms, it could be a sign that they are suffering from asthma.

• A chronic cough (a cough that continues for more than 2 weeks). 
• Coughing spells that occur often, at any time of the day. 
• Fast breathing or panting.
• Lack of energy, tires out easily during exercise. 
• Chest pain.
• Chest tightness.
• Neck tightness. 
• Feeling out of breath (with or without exertion).

Asthma symptoms can range from mild to severe. Contact us if you notice any of these symptoms. If the symptoms are severe, but not immediately life threatening, call our regular office number for After hours and Emergencies, (856) 547-7300 for Haddon Heights and (856) 294-5600 for Mullica Hill. If your child is struggling to breathe, call 911 or go immediately to the closest emergency department. 

What is an Asthma Attack?

When someone who suffers from asthma has an attack, it means they experience severe symptoms that come on suddenly. They may feel tightness of the chest, begin to cough, gasp for air, or exhibit other symptoms of asthma. 

Triggers for Asthma Attacks

There are many different things that can trigger an asthma attack, and triggers vary from person to person. Some examples include:

• Allergens. Asthma is often triggered by allergies to pollen, animal dander, dust, mold, and other allergens. 
• Illnesses. Any illness that affects the respiratory system can cause an asthma attack, such as a cold, the flu, pneumonia, or sinus infections. 
• Stress. In some teens, stress and anxiety can cause an asthma attack to occur. Asthma is often triggered by anxiety attacks and vice versa. 
• Air irritants. Pollutants and chemicals in the air can irritate a child’s airway and lungs and cause an asthma attack. Cold air can also be a trigger. 
• Exertion. In some children, exercise can trigger an asthma attack. 

Treatment for Asthma

Asthma can be treated with medication, such as nebulizer breathing treatments or inhalers. Some medicines, like albuterol, are used for immediate treatment of an attack, while other treatments are used on a regular basis to help prevent attacks and ease daily symptoms. 

Visit Advocare Haddon Pediatric Group for Childhood Asthma Treatment 

Asthma that is well managed can result in fewer attacks and better overall health. The expert pediatricians at Advocare Haddon Pediatric Group will determine the best course of treatment for your child’s asthma. Advocare offers a full range of pediatric services for children of all ages from birth through adolescence. 

Call (856) 547-7300 today to make an appointment at out Haddon Heights office or (856) 294-5600 to make an appointment at our Mullica Hill office.