Asthma is a long term and incurable disease. The patient has to live with the symptoms of this disease throughout his life. However, its severity can be reduced to some extent through treatment. But life is not easy with this.
People of every age group are at risk of this lung related disease. But children are more vulnerable to it. Apart from being genetic, it is also caused by short intake of mother’s milk, weak immunity, exposure to pollution and smoking. Dr. Ravi Shankar Jha, Director and Unit Head Pulmonology, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Faridabad, has explained about the early symptoms with the help of which this disease can be better managed in children.
Early symptoms of asthma in children –
frequent cough
Persistent cough, especially at night or during physical activities, can be an early sign of asthma in children. This cough can be dry or phlegm.
wheezing
Wheezing is a loud sound produced while breathing, which is usually heard during exhalation. This is caused by narrowing of the airways and is a symptom of asthma in children.
difficulty breathing
Children with asthma may experience difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, especially after physical exertion or exposure to asthma triggers such as allergens or cold air.
chest tightness
Asthma may cause chest tightness or discomfort. Children may describe feeling as if something is pressing or pressing on their chest.
Tiredness
Persistent cough and difficulty breathing can cause fatigue in children suffering from asthma. They may seem tired or lethargic, especially during heightened asthma symptoms.
breathing rapidly
As asthma worsens, breathing becomes more rapid as the body tries to compensate for the drop in oxygen levels. Parents should keep an eye on their child’s breathing rate, especially during an asthma attack.
Insomnia
Asthma symptoms often worsen at night, causing disrupted sleep patterns. Children with asthma may have trouble sleeping or wake up frequently due to coughing or difficulty breathing.
avoiding physical activities
Some children with asthma may avoid physical activities or sports for fear of causing asthma symptoms. This may affect their overall physical fitness and quality of life.
allergy symptoms
Are linked to allergies and asthma. Therefore, children with asthma may also experience symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes or skin rashes, especially when exposed to allergens such as pollen, dust mites or pet dander.
anxiety or irritability
Living with asthma can be stressful for children, causing anxiety or irritability, especially during an asthma attack or when symptoms interfere with daily activities.
