Asthma is a growing problem for children in this country. Currently over one in 10 kids are affected by this chronic illness, and unfortunately, those numbers are only continuing to rise. Doctors and researchers have yet to determine the cause of the increased number of child asthma cases. Some believe it is related to air pollution, while others believe it to be the inadequate immune response. While symptoms may develop at any age, most cases of pediatric asthma begin to rear their ugly heads by the age of five.
Symptoms of Asthma in Starkville MS are similar among children and adults. They sometimes include frequent coughing spells, lowered energy levels, rapid breathing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and a feeling of tightness in the chest and neck. Frequent headaches, lowered appetite, exhaustion, and dark circles around the eyes are some less obvious signs. Many children who suffer from asthma do not manifest all of these symptoms, and the symptoms they do have often change from one asthma attack to the next.
An accurate diagnosis can only be obtained by a qualified physician. Typical diagnostic tests include physical exams, usually focused on the heart and lungs, a review of the child’s medical history and current symptoms, and pulmonary function tests. These are designed to measure how much air is reaching the lungs, and how quickly it is being exhaled. It can help determine the severity of attacks.
Although Asthma in Starkville MS can affect any child, there are certain risk factors that make some more likely to develop it than others. These include frequent respiratory infections, food and environmental allergies, the presence of certain skin conditions, exposure to cigarette smoke either before or after birth, and a family history of the disease.
Parents who are concerned about developing symptoms in children can visit Dr. Skis Kids for more information or schedule diagnostic testing and exams. It’s important to obtain an early and accurate diagnosis in order to provide the best treatment and avoid future complications. Unfortunately, asthma is usually a life-long disease. Establishing effective techniques for managing symptoms early can help to set children up to succeed at keeping their asthma at bay later in life, so don’t waste time. Make an appointment today.
