Signs of a Toddler Asthma Attack
According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI), asthma is a long-term chronic respiratory condition in which the lower airway becomes inflamed and narrowed. It affects nearly 22 million people in the United States and usually begins in childhood. It is important to understand the signs and symptoms of an asthma attack in order to effectively treat it and prevent further complications.
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Triggers
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An asthma attack can be triggered by allergies, irritants like smoke, certain medications like NSAIDS, illness, exercise and emotion. It is important to understand and manage triggers in order to prevent symptoms.
Coughing
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Coughing is one of the most common signs of asthma exacerbation, especially night-time coughing.
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Tight Chest
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Chest tightness is another symptom. A toddler may not be able to describe his chest as being tight, but he may call it itchy, funny or something else out of the ordinary.
Wheezing
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Wheezing is a whistling sound made when the toddler exhales during an asthma attack. It is the sound produced when the airway has narrowed.
Shortness of Breath
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The toddler may not be able to say that she is short of breath, but you may notice that she tires easily or even refuses playful activity for long periods of time.
Warning
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Asthma can be life-threatening. It is imperative that symptoms be taken seriously and treated promptly.
Because a child is not wheezing does not mean he is not having an asthma attack. Take your child to the emergency room if his home medicines don't give him relief after one or two treatments.
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- Photo Credit Photo by Phylb, June 2007
