The Role of Pediatricians in Managing Childhood Asthma

Asthma is a serious condition, especially among children, because a child’s airways are smaller. Managing childhood asthma is important to help your child stay healthy and active. Your pediatrician can help. Drs. Kristine Liberty, Steven Kovar, and Jessica Ciszek at Kids First Pediatrics in Plainfield, IL, offer comprehensive medical care for children, including managing childhood asthma.

What You Need To Know About Childhood Asthma

Asthma is a common problem. The CDC estimates 1 in 10 children suffer from asthma. An asthma attack can happen from exposure to an allergen, a substance your child is allergic to. Frequent colds or respiratory infections can also bring on asthma symptoms.

Your pediatrician is an expert at the diagnosis and management of asthma and may recommend beginning with allergy testing to find substances your child is allergic to so your child can avoid the allergen. In addition, your pediatrician may recommend allergy treatment, including:

• Allergy injections
• Nasal sprays
• Sublingual immunotherapy
• Prescription antihistamines and decongestants

Your pediatrician will also complete tests to determine your child’s lung function and other asthma indicators. To treat your child’s asthma, the pediatrician may recommend:

• Long-term asthma control medications, including inhaled corticosteroids, leukotriene modifiers, combination inhalers, and theophylline
• Quick-relief rescue medications, including oral corticosteroids, short-acting beta-agonists, and ipratropium

Modifying your child’s environment is important to reduce exposure to common allergens such as mold, mildew, dust, and pet dander. Your pediatrician may recommend:

• Vacuuming frequently or considering hard flooring
• Washing pillowcases and sheets regularly
• Using hypoallergenic sheets and pillowcases
• Keeping pets off furniture and out of your child’s bedroom
• Installing a HEPA filter in your child’s bedroom

Additional steps you can take to help manage your child’s asthma include:

• Avoiding substances your child is allergic to
• Keeping your child away from smoke
• Having regular physical activity to help your child’s lungs
• Visiting the pediatrician regularly to monitor your child’s asthma

Want To Know More About Childhood Asthma?

Call Drs to learn more about the causes, management, and prevention of asthma. Kristine Liberty, Steven Kovar, and Jessica Ciszek at Kids First Pediatrics in Plainfield, IL. You can reach them in the office by calling (815) 609-5437 (KIDS)

Call today.