If you think your child has asthma, you may have a few questions. How is asthma diagnosed? Can you outgrow asthma? What are common asthma medications? Lila Kurtz answers these questions and more in this week’s episode of Mom Docs.
How is asthma diagnosed?
Doctors look for recurring episodes of coughing or wheezing when diagnosing asthma in children. The first coughing or wheezing event typically is not enough for an asthma diagnosis.
What asthma medications are prescribed?
All children and infants receive albuterol as treatment for asthma. Albuterol will relieve cough, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. In severe cases, treatment for asthma includes inhaled corticosteroids.
What kinds of tests will my child receive?
Lung function testing begins around age 5 and is monitored with each visit.
Can children outgrow asthma?
It is possible for asthma to go away. However, children with a history of allergy are at risk for not outgrowing asthma.
When should I talk to a doctor about asthma?
If you have concerns about your child’s recurring cough, wheeze, or shortness of breath, it’s time talk to your pediatrician to see if asthma is a potential diagnosis.
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