Asthma is a respiratory condition caused by airway inflammation which can lead to constriction of the airways as well as mucous plugging in the small airways of the lungs. This can cause narrowing of the airways, which makes breathing difficult. You may hear noisy breathing (wheezing), observe fast, labored breathing, or have persistent cough. Older children may complain of chest pain, cough, and shortness of breath. Asthma is typically diagnosed after the age of 2-3 years. Asthma can be triggered by viruses, upper respiratory infections, changes in weather, or allergies.
If your pediatrician has diagnosed you with asthma, you should already have an Albuterol inhaler or Albuterol nebulizer. For an acute attack, take the albuterol every 4 hours as needed until symptoms improve. If it needs to be taken more often than every 4 hours, please call our office or go to an urgent care/ER.