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Childhood Asthma

Chronic inflammatory airway disease causes recurrent wheezing and shortness of breath in children.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Childhood Asthma?

Asthma is an obstructive respiratory disease in which chronic airway inflammation combines with airway hyperreactivity, presenting as recurrent attacks. It affects 300 million people worldwide; 50% of cases begin in childhood, making it the most prevalent chronic disease of childhood.

Pathogenesis involves a Th2-dominant immune response with mast cell and eosinophil-mediated inflammation. Triggers include allergic factors (house dust mite, animal dander, mold, pollen) and non-allergic factors (viral URIs, cold air, exercise, tobacco smoke).

Children with controlled asthma can participate without restriction in daily activities. The aim of treatment is to prevent attacks, preserve lung function, and bring quality of life close to normal.

Symptoms

Recurrent wheezing
Cough especially at night or early morning
Shortness of breath triggered by exercise or viral infection
Chest tightness
Cough variant: chronic cough only
Use of accessory respiratory muscles and cyanosis during acute attack

Risk Factors

Atopic dermatitis or allergic rhinitis (atopic march)
Family history of asthma or atopy
Prenatal/postnatal exposure to tobacco smoke
Recurrent viral respiratory infections in early childhood
Obesity
Chronic exposure to air pollution

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • First wheezing attack for diagnosis
  • When symptoms are not controlled despite treatment
  • ER if rapid deterioration, cyanosis, or altered consciousness during acute attack
  • Annually for spirometry and treatment plan update

Treatment Methods

01
Short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA): rescue therapy (salbutamol)
02
Inhaled corticosteroid (ICS): first-line controller medication
03
ICS + long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA): for moderate to severe persistent asthma
04
Montelukast: add-on for allergic and exercise-induced asthma
05
Trigger avoidance: allergen reduction, smoke-free environment
06
Allergen immunotherapy (SIT): selected allergic asthma cases

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.