7 Days Pediatrics - Amboy Office

(732) 548-3210

7 Days Pediatrics - Oak Tree Office

(732) 548-3210

7 Days Pediatrics - South Plainfield Office

(732) 548-3210
Treating Asthma In Your Child

Asthma doesn't have to prevent your child from enjoying life. Thanks to a variety of effective treatment options, flare-ups may be reducedathma or prevented. The children's doctors at 7 Day Pediatrics help children manage asthma and other chronic conditions from their Edison and South Plainfield, NJ, offices and serving Fords and Perth Amboy.

How can I tell that my child is asthma?

Your child may have asthma if he or she exhibits any of these symptoms:

  • Wheezing: You may notice a whistling sound when your child breathes out.
  • Coughing: Does your child cough frequently, even if he or she doesn't seem to be sick?
  • Trouble Breathing: Your son or daughter may experience shortness of breath or rapid breathing due to asthma.
  • Chest Pain or Tightness: Children who have asthma may say that their chest hurts or feels tight.
  • Fatigue and Irritability: Struggling to breathe can make your child feel tired and grumpy.

What options are available to treat asthma?

Although you may suspect your child has asthma, the only way to confirm your suspicions is with a visit to an Edison or South Plainfield pediatrician. Common treatment options include:

  • Maintenance Medications: These medications are taken every day to prevent or reduce asthma flare-ups. Some medications are inhaled, while others are available in pill form.
  • Rescue Medications: Your child may also be prescribed a quick-relief inhaler that can help control asthma symptoms for four to six hours. The inhaler is used when symptoms flare up and is usually used in conjunction with a maintenance medication.

Treating underlying issues that may worsen asthma or cause flare-ups is also important. If your child's symptoms are triggered by allergies, allergy medication or immunotherapy (allergy shots) may be recommended.

Identification of asthma triggers is another important aspect of asthma management. Triggers may include cigarette smoke, perfume, mold, cold weather, exercise, pet dander, or allergens. You might ask family members to avoid wearing fragrances in your home if strong odors cause flare-ups. If cold temperatures cause symptoms, encouraging your child to play indoors on frigid days may help him or her avoid an asthma attack.

Does your child have any symptoms of asthma? Call the children's doctors at 7 Day Pediatrics in Edison and South Plainfield, NJ, at (732) 548-3210 to schedule your child's appointment.