Asthma Care

Diagnosis is mostly a clinical pattern: recurrent wheeze, cough, or shortness of breath that responds to a bronchodilator. For older kids, we may use spirometry. We rule out other causes (allergies, reflux, infection) and only commit to a diagnosis when the pattern fits.

Many kids do — symptoms often improve in adolescence, especially if asthma is mild and well-controlled. Some carry it into adulthood. Either way, the goal is the same: keep symptoms minimal, lungs healthy, and life uninterrupted.

A rescue inhaler (usually albuterol) is for fast relief during symptoms. A controller (usually an inhaled steroid) is taken every day to prevent symptoms — it doesn’t help during a flare-up. Many kids need both. Using a rescue more than twice a week usually means the controller plan needs adjustment.

Yes — and they should. Well-controlled asthma is fully compatible with sports, including competitive ones. Some kids benefit from using their rescue inhaler 15 minutes before exercise. We’ll build that into the action plan if it helps.

Follow the action plan — use the rescue inhaler, watch for improvement, and call us if symptoms aren’t better in an hour or are getting worse. Go straight to the ER (or call 911) for trouble speaking, blue lips, severe chest tightness, or no improvement after rescue treatment.

Most pediatric asthma is well-managed in our office. We refer to a pediatric pulmonologist or allergist for severe asthma, frequent flare-ups despite a strong controller plan, or when allergy testing or biologic therapy is being considered.