Asthma is the leading cause of long-term illness in children, affecting about 7 million kids in the United States. Those numbers have been going up, and experts aren’t sure why.

Most children have their first symptoms by age 5, but Asthma can begin at any age. If your child has Asthma, their lungs and airways can easily get inflamed when they have a cold or are around things like pollen. The symptoms may make it hard for your child to do everyday activities or sleep. 

Not all children have the same asthma symptoms. A child may even have different symptoms from one episode to the next. Signs and symptoms of Asthma in children include:

• A cough that doesn’t go away.
• Frequent coughing spells during play or exercise, at night, in cold air, or while laughing or crying.
• Less energy during play and stopping to catch their breath during activities.
• Avoiding sports or social activities.
• Trouble sleeping because of coughing or breathing problems.
• Chest and neck tightness or pain.
• Wheezing, a whistling sound when breathing in or out.

If you have questions about Asthma or other respiratory issues that your child is having, schedule an appointment with Community Choice Pediatrics online, or call our office at (816) 524-5600.