About this condition
Asthma can cause recurring wheezing, coughing, breathlessness or chest tightness. Symptoms often vary during the day and may be worse at night, during exercise or after exposure to certain irritants. Other illnesses can look similar, so an asthma diagnosis requires appropriate confirmation.
Diagnosis in children
Objective lung-function tests are particularly important for older children. Preschool children may not be able to complete these tests reliably, so the clinician considers symptom patterns, response to prescribed treatment and follow-up assessments. A final diagnosis may not be possible at the first consultation.
Keeping asthma under control
The goal is to help children stay active, sleep and attend school while reducing exacerbations. Regular symptom reviews, correct inhaler technique, a clinician-agreed action plan for worsening symptoms and control of triggers all play an important role.
Signs and symptoms
- Recurring wheeze on breathing out and night-time cough.
- Breathlessness or cough with running, colds or irritant exposure.
- Chest tightness in older children.
- Waking at night or reducing physical activity because of breathing symptoms.
Diagnosis and tests
Assessment begins with a detailed history and clinical examination. When age-appropriate and indicated, spirometry with bronchodilator response assessment or other tests may be used. Findings are interpreted in their clinical context rather than from a single value.
Care and treatment approaches
A clinician selects medicines and inhaler devices for the individual child. Do not follow someone else’s regimen or change prescribed treatment yourself. Follow-up assesses symptom control, inhaler technique, exacerbation frequency and whether the care plan needs adjusting.
When to seek urgent care
When emergency care is needed: if a child struggles to breathe, has blue lips, pronounced chest retractions, pauses in breathing, altered consciousness or severe exhaustion, call 103 in Ukraine. Do not wait for a routine appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Can asthma show up as coughing alone?
A cough can sometimes be prominent, but asthma cannot be diagnosed on the basis of coughing alone.
At what age can a child have spirometry?
It depends on whether the child can perform the breathing manoeuvre correctly; a specialist assesses suitability.
Can children with asthma play sport?
With good control, many children remain active. The clinician provides individual advice based on the child’s condition.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
