Your child comes home from school with a mild cough. At first, you brush it off, assuming it’s due to seasonal allergies, a cold, or the flu. However, just when it seems to improve, the cough returns, especially during activities such as playing on the playground or participating in sports.
Sound familiar? You might start to wonder if your child has asthma.
At Old Fourth Ward Pediatrics, our caring pediatricians specialize in diagnosing and treating asthma. Keep reading to learn how asthma presents in kids and teens, what symptoms to watch for, and when to see a doctor.
Nearly five million kids under the age of 18 have asthma, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. This respiratory disorder leads to chronic inflammation, causing the airways to narrow and produce excess mucus. Although symptom severity varies, many children with asthma experience coughing or difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity.
Many parents assume that asthma causes noticeable symptoms, like wheezing and shortness of breath. However, in many cases, a persistent cough is the only sign. Asthma often flares up in response to triggers, which can make patterns easier for parents to spot.
The easiest way to determine whether your child’s cough is due to asthma is to look for specific signs. These include:
Asthma-related cough is often easier to identify in younger children. Teenagers may try to hide their symptoms, so parents should observe, especially if their teen plays sports or other activities they fear might trigger asthma.
Schedule an appointment with our caring team if your child or teenager has a cough that lasts more than a few weeks or occurs in conjunction with other breathing issues. After reviewing their symptoms and health history and completing a physical exam, we can determine if respiratory testing would be helpful.
If testing confirms that your child has asthma, we can make personalized treatment recommendations that help keep their lungs healthy. Studies show that early diagnosis helps prevent flare-ups and allows children to stay active and comfortable.
If your child has a persistent cough that affects their quality of life, it’s essential to understand the underlying cause. We offer comprehensive asthma screenings and can recommend treatments, including prescription medications, quick-relief inhalers, and activity modifications. Contact Old Fourth Ward Pediatrics in Atlanta, Georgia, today. Call our office or use the online booking feature to get started.
