Get Help From Your Pediatrician If Your Child Has Asthma
- posted: Sep. 15, 2016
Parents play a vital role in protecting the health of their children. Childhood asthma is the most common chronic condition in children 
and babies but can often present itself in ways that make diagnosis difficult. Learn the signs and symptoms of asthma and find out how your pediatrician at West End Pediatrics in Alexandria, VA can help.
Signs and Symptoms of Asthma in Children
Some tell-tale signs your child may be suffering from asthma include:
- wheezing
- coughing
- night-time coughing fits
- coughing fits caused by exercise
- tightness in the chest
- shortness of breath throughout the day or during sleep
Some of these symptoms also indicate the presence of other childhood illnesses like an upper respiratory infection or a cold. However, your pediatrician can help you diagnose and treat asthma. Diagnosis depends on several factors, including tests determining pulmonary functionality, exercise tests, allergy tests and imagining techniques like x-rays.
Pediatric Asthma Treatment in Alexandria, VA
If you suspect your child has asthma, you should schedule an appointment with your child’s pediatrician as soon as possible. Treating pediatric asthma depends on the patient and the severity of their case. Frequent follow-up examinations to monitor progress and assess the effectiveness of the medications prescribed are usually necessary while determining the correct treatment plan for your child.
Long-term treatment often include medications such as corticosteroids or leukotriene modifiers. Some inhalers combine several medications to administer several different medicines at once. A pill taken daily can also help control asthma by controlling the muscles around the airway. Short-term medications are also available for immediate relief of asthma symptoms.
For more information on asthma, please contact Dr. Lisa Rainey, Dr. Perdita Taylor-Zapata and Dr. Denyse Bailey at West End Pediatrics in Alexandria, VA. Call (703) 823-7400 to schedule your appointment with your pediatrician today!
