Managing Childhood Asthma
Jeremy Goodie • January 14, 2025
While some childhood illnesses are more severe, few are as common or as disruptive as asthma. With proper medication and management, children with asthma can lead active, healthy lives, enjoying sports and outdoor play without limitations.
Conversely, unmanaged asthma can be frightening for a child, causing panic, anxiety and discomfort during severe attacks.
If you suspect your child has asthma or you're looking for a doctor to help manage symptoms and support your child's respiratory health, our pediatricians at St. Hope Healthcare can assist.
Why Is Childhood Asthma So Common?
Asthma affects millions of children worldwide, and while researchers don’t fully understand why it develops in some children, several factors likely contribute to its prevalence:
- Genetics:
Children with a family history of asthma or allergies are more likely to develop the condition.
- Environmental Triggers:
Exposure to allergens like dust, pollen, mold, pet dander and air pollution can increase the risk of asthma.
- Respiratory Infections: Early childhood respiratory illnesses, especially viral infections, can lead to lung inflammation that makes asthma more likely.
- Modern Lifestyles: Reduced exposure to microbes in early life (the hygiene hypothesis) may play a role in increased asthma rates, as children’s immune systems may not develop as robustly as they did in the past.
Why Do Some Children Outgrow Asthma?
Many children experience fewer asthma symptoms as they grow older, and some appear to 'outgrow' the condition entirely. This happens for several reasons:
- Lung Development: As children grow, their airways expand, making them less prone to inflammation and restriction.
- Stronger Immune Systems:
As the immune system matures, it may react less aggressively to asthma triggers.
- Better Symptom Management: Over time, children learn to avoid triggers and manage their symptoms effectively, reducing the frequency and severity of attacks.
However, even if symptoms disappear during adolescence, asthma can sometimes return in adulthood, particularly if triggered by illness, stress or environmental factors.
Recognizing Asthma Symptoms in Children
Asthma symptoms can vary from child to child, but common signs include:
- Frequent coughing, especially at night or after exercise.
- Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing).
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
- Chest tightness or pain.
- Increased symptoms when exposed to triggers like cold air, smoke or allergens.
If your child frequently experiences these symptoms, a pediatrician can evaluate them to determine if asthma is the cause.
Managing Childhood Asthma at Home
Asthma management focuses on controlling symptoms and preventing flare-ups. Parents can help their child by:
- Identifying and avoiding triggers – Keep an asthma diary to track symptoms and determine what worsens them. Common triggers include dust, pollen, pet dander, smoke, cold air and respiratory infections.
- Using medication as prescribed – Many children need daily controller medications (such as inhaled corticosteroids) to reduce inflammation, along with rescue inhalers (like albuterol) for quick relief during attacks.
- Encouraging regular exercise – Many children with asthma can still safely participate in sports with proper management and a rescue inhaler. Swimming, walking and biking are often well-tolerated.
- Maintaining good air quality – Using air filters in your home, keeping dust levels low and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke can reduce asthma symptoms.
- Monitoring symptoms daily – Using a peak flow meter or keeping a symptom journal can help parents track changes and adjust treatment as needed.
Managing Asthma at School
School environments can pose challenges for children with asthma, but proactive planning can help:
- Create an asthma action plan – Work with your child’s doctor to outline daily medication use, symptoms to watch for and emergency instructions. Share this plan with teachers and school nurses.
- Ensure access to medication – Children should have quick access to their inhaler in case of an asthma attack. Some schools require written permission for students to carry their inhaler. Parents should remind their child to bring it each morning until it becomes routine.
- Communicate with school staff
– Make sure teachers, coaches and school nurses understand your child’s condition and know how to respond to symptoms or an attack.
- Prepare for physical activity – If exercise triggers asthma, pre-medicating with a bronchodilator (if recommended by a doctor) can help prevent symptoms.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While asthma can often be managed at home, certain situations require urgent medical care. Seek immediate help if your child experiences:
- Severe difficulty breathing or rapid breathing.
- Bluish lips or fingernails (a sign of low oxygen levels).
- Inhaler use does not provide relief.
- Trouble speaking or extreme fatigue during an asthma attack.
Supporting Houston Parents in Managing Childhood Asthma
With proper management, most children with asthma can lead normal, active lives. Identifying triggers, following a treatment plan and ensuring a safe environment at home and school can make a significant difference.
If you suspect your child has asthma or need support in managing their condition, the pediatric team at St. Hope Healthcare is here to help. Call us at (713) 778-1300 to schedule an appointment.
Latest News from St. Hope
Changing weather and environmental factors bring new health challenges for children. While many of these issues are common and temporary, they can still be headaches for parents. At St. Hope Pediatrics, we believe prevention and early care are key to navigating seasonal health changes in pediatric care . Colder Weather and Winter When temperatures drop, children tend to spend more time indoors, and that often means more exposure to germs. They’re also in school all winter, spending at least eight hours a day packed in with other kids. Winter ailments can spread like wildfire in those conditions, which is part of why they’re some of the most common. Common Winter Health Challenges ● Colds and flu : Viruses spread more easily in indoor environments with less ventilation, like classrooms. ● Dry skin and eczema flare-ups : Cold air and indoor heating both dry out the skin. ● Asthma aggravation : Cold air can trigger bronchospasms, making asthma worse. ● Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) : Shorter days and less sunlight may impact mood, even in children. Tips for Winter Wellness ● Encourage frequent handwashing and teach them to cover coughs/sneezes. ● Use a humidifier to balance dry indoor air. ● Keep your child’s skin moisturized with fragrance-free lotion. ● Dress them in breathable layers to manage temperature changes. ● Ensure adequate daylight exposure or talk to your doctor about ways to ensure they get adequate vitamin D. Spring Allergies Spring brings beauty, like blooming flowers and budding trees, but also pollen. Seasonal allergies (also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever) are extremely common in children and can interfere with sleep, school and outdoor play. Common Spring Health Challenges ● Sneezing, runny noses and itchy eyes. ● Coughing and throat irritation. ● Worsening of asthma symptoms. Tips for Childhood Allergy Management ● Keep windows closed during high-pollen days. ● Make sure they shower and change clothes after outdoor play. ● Consider using an air purifier with a HEPA filter if your child has severe allergy symptoms. ● Talk to your pediatrician about safe antihistamines or allergy testing. The Risks of Summer Heat While summer is a favorite season for many kids, the heat can pose serious health risks if not managed carefully. This is especially important since encouraging your child to go outside and be active is key to their growth and development. Parents should take steps to ensure they can get exercise safely. Common Summer Health Challenges ● Heat exhaustion or heatstroke , especially during intense outdoor activities. ● Sunburn caused by UV rays can damage young skin quickly. ● Dehydration is a constant threat as hot weather increases fluid loss through sweat. ● Insect bites from mosquitoes, ticks and other Texas pests are more common during the summer months. Tips for Summer Safety ● Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) every two hours. ● Encourage frequent water breaks during outdoor play. ● Dress them in light, breathable clothing and hats. ● Use insect repellent and do tick checks after hikes or park visits. Fall Transition: Back to School, Back to Germs Fall brings cooler temperatures and the start of the school year, both of which can increase your child’s exposure to germs and stress. Common Fall Health Challenges ● Colds, coughs and early flu. ● Stomach bugs spreading at school. ● Stress-related symptoms like headaches and sleep changes. Tips for Fall Readiness ● Reinforce good hygiene habits. ● Make sure your child gets a flu shot early in the season. ● Establish a consistent sleep schedule to support immunity. ● Check in on how they’re doing since the transition back to school can be tough for kids. Keep Your Child Healthy Year-Round With Good Immune Support No matter the season, your child’s immune system benefits from good year-round healthy habits: ● A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. ● Regular physical activity. ● Adequate sleep of between 9 to 12 hours per day, depending on age. ● Staying current on vaccinations. ● Regular check-ups with your pediatrician. Preventive care is one of the best ways to protect your child from seasonal health issues. A well-child visit is an ideal time to discuss allergies, asthma management, immunity and any concerns you have about upcoming seasonal changes. When to Call the Pediatrician ● Cold or allergy symptoms last more than 10 days or worsen. ● Your child has trouble breathing or wheezing. ● Skin issues become inflamed, painful or infected. ● They show signs of persistent or serious dehydration like dry mouth, no tears or dark urine. ● Fever lasts more than a few days or is very high. Our Houston Healthcare Facility Is Here for Your Child Every Season At St. Hope Pediatrics, we know that kids aren’t just small adults. They have unique needs, especially during seasonal transitions. Whether it’s managing seasonal allergies, preventing sunburns, treating coughs or just helping you build a strong health foundation, we’re here to support your family all year long. Call us at (713) 778-1300 or make an appointment here on our website to connect with a Houston pediatric doctor.
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