What are the symptoms of asthma?
Asthma is a lung disease characterized by a sudden narrowing or inflammation of the air- ways. Symptoms include wheezing, coughing, congestion, shortness of breath and chest tightness. If a child has any chronic respiratory problem, such as chronic bronchitis or recurrent pneumonia, asthma may be the underlying cause. About 80% of children with asthma show symptoms under the age of five.

What can trigger an asthma attack?
The factors that trigger asthma vary with each child and can include viral infections, cigarette smoke, allergic reactions to pollen, animal dander, dust and other allergens, exercise, excitement or stress.

What treatments are available?
Children with untreated asthma can suffer significant limitations in terms of their ability to participate in sports and school. The good news is that treatment is effective and most children are able to function well and lead normal lives. Anti-inflammatory medications taken on a regular basis can help to preserve lung function and prevent future episodes. That's why it is important for children to take their control medication regularly and not just resort to rescue medications when they're having an episode.

What can parents do to help?
Be aware that chronic respiratory symptoms can be a sign of an asthmatic condition and should be evaluated by a physician. By modifying the child's environment, the symptoms can improve. It may be belpful to remove asthmatic triggers by keeping a pet outside, not smoking, or cleaning a moldy or dusty area of the house.