Asthma is a chronic disease involving the airways in the lungs. These airways are constantly inflamed, but when they become even more irritated and swollen, you can experience shortness of breath, wheezing, tightness in your chest, coughing or wheezing.

Asthma is a common condition in the U.S. affecting more than 3 million people. For some children, asthma is a nuisance while for others it can be a life-threatening condition with severe symptoms.

How is asthma diagnosed?

During a physical examination, Dr. Kolsi will listen to your child’s lungs as they breathe in and out. If your child is older, she may use a peak flow meter or spirometry to test how well your child moves air in and out of their lungs when they breathe. These tests are painless and are usually performed before and after a bronchodilator medication is given to your child. If your child’s lung function improves after the medication, it is likely that they have asthma.In severe cases, Dr. Kolsi may refer you to a pulmonologist or respiratory therapist who can offer additional treatment options.

How is asthma treated?

Depending on the severity of the symptoms, asthma is generally treated with a long-term medication and/or a short-acting medication.

Long-term medications are taken once a day and help prevent asthma attacks before they begin. These may include oral medications or other long-acting inhaled medications that are designed to reduce the inflammation in the airways.

Short-acting medication is often used in conjunction with long-term medication for times when symptoms become particularly severe. These medications are also known as “rescue medications” and provide quick relief.

For children whose asthma symptoms are brought on by allergies, seasonal or otherwise, allergy testing and medications may be necessary to achieve long-term relief from asthma-like symptoms.