Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting children. While asthma cannot be cured, it can usually be managed successfully with the right treatment plan, medications, and by avoiding triggers. With good asthma control, most children can attend school, play sports, and participate in the activities they enjoy.
If you think your child may have asthma or their symptoms are changing, talk with your healthcare professional.
Children don't always describe asthma symptoms the same way adults do. Some children may not be able to explain what they're feeling, so it's important to watch for signs such as:
Symptoms may come and go and can worsen during exercise, allergy season, or when your child has a cold or other respiratory illness.
Every child has different asthma triggers. Learning what causes your child's symptoms can help reduce flare-ups.
Common triggers include:
Your child's healthcare professional or an allergist can help identify specific triggers and recommend ways to reduce exposure.
Working closely with your child's healthcare provider is the best way to keep asthma under control.
Help your child by:
Many young children use a spacer or holding chamber with their inhaler to help ensure the medication reaches their lungs effectively. Ask your healthcare professional to demonstrate the correct technique.
Children spend much of their day at school, so it's important that teachers, school nurses, coaches, and other caregivers know about your child's asthma.
Consider providing the school with:
Talk with your child's school about their policies regarding asthma medications and inhaler access.
Children with asthma can usually participate fully in sports, recess, and other physical activities when their asthma is well controlled.
If exercise causes coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath, talk with your child's healthcare professional. They may recommend strategies or medications to help prevent exercise-related symptoms.
Regular physical activity is an important part of a healthy lifestyle.
Tobacco smoke is a common asthma trigger and can make symptoms worse.
To help protect your child:
Creating a smoke-free environment is one of the most effective ways to support your child's lung health.
Contact your child's healthcare professional if:
Seek emergency medical care immediately if your child has severe difficulty breathing, struggles to speak because of shortness of breath, their lips or fingernails appear blue or gray, or their rescue medication is not providing relief.
Living with asthma takes time to adjust to, but many children with asthma lead active, healthy lives. By understanding your child's triggers, following their treatment plan, and working with their healthcare team, you can help them manage their asthma with confidence.