What is childhood asthma?
Asthma is a chronic condition involving inflammation and narrowing of the airways.
Common symptoms include: Wheezing
Recurrent cough
Shortness of breath
Chest tightness
Symptoms can vary over time.
Common triggers
Viral respiratory infections
Dust mites
Pollen
Animal allergens
Tobacco smoke
Air pollution
Exercise
Weather changes
Other individual triggers
Recurrent respiratory infections
Children commonly experience respiratory infections, particularly during early childhood and when attending school or daycare. Most are viral, but some infections can become more serious.
Repeated cough or wheezing does not automatically mean asthma. However, recurrent symptoms—especially nighttime cough, exercise-related symptoms or repeated wheezing—may require medical evaluation.
Asthma assessment may include
Detailed symptom history
Physical examination
Assessment of possible triggers
Lung-function testing when age appropriate
Monitoring symptoms over time
Emergency warning signs
Seek urgent medical care if a child develops:
Severe difficulty breathing
Rapidly worsening wheezing
Blue or grey lips
Difficulty speaking or drinking because of breathlessness
Significant chest retractions
Severe drowsiness or exhaustion
Children diagnosed with asthma should follow their prescribed asthma action and medication plan.
