How do we tell if our child has asthma?

Transcript

One in nine Australian children has asthma. It's one of the most common reasons children visit their doctor or go to hospital. It is important to know that children are not simply small adults. Information that applies to adults does not always apply to children. This section gives you some important information, especially related to children with asthma. It is important though, to talk to your doctor if you are unsure of anything about your child's asthma.

How do we tell if our child has asthma ?

Children with asthma can have many different symptoms. They may have trouble breathing. They may wheeze or have a persistent dry cough. Your child may feel breathless. They may have trouble describing this sensation and may even describe discomfort in their chest or tummy.

There is no test that proves a child has asthma. However, children with asthma will have repeated bouts of wheeze and difficulty breathing. Your doctor will ask you questions about your child's breathing to make sure they do not have any other condition, which could also make them wheeze. They may even try asthma medication to see if the child's symptoms get better.

Children who are six years and older may be able to do breathing tests called lung function testing.

What is wheeze?

Wheeze is a high pitched musical sound typically heard when a child breathes out. It is caused by narrowing of the small air pipes of the lungs. Because children are smaller than adults, their air pipes are smaller and they are more likely to wheeze.

Children may make a purring rattle sound when they breathe. This is not a wheeze. Make sure you tell your doctor about any sounds your child makes when breathing.

Cough

Children with asthma often have a dry cough. Cough is a common symptom in children. Children who cough and who do not wheeze are unlikely to have asthma. Your doctor can talk to you further about this.

Pre-school wheeze

It is common for young children to wheeze when they have a virus or cold. Many children who wheeze when they're young, stop wheezing by the time they start school. Some children who wheeze only when they have a cold, may not have asthma. Some asthma medications that are used in adults may not work in young children with wheeze.

You and your doctor may decide to trial medication. It is important you understand what medication your child is taking and how it is to be taken. If the medication does not appear to be working, talk with your doctor.

Asthma attack

How do you tell if your child is having an asthma attack? They may appear to breathe faster or harder than normal. You may notice the skin above your child's collarbone or over their lower ribs sucking in. You might also notice their stomach sticking out more than usual as they breathe in deeply. They may also say their chest feels tight or sore.

You may hear wheezing. This is a high-pitched musical sound when they breathe out. It can sometimes only be heard by the doctor. They may also have a persistent, irritating cough that is usually dry. You may notice this first at night or early morning, and it's often present after they have been playing sport or running around.

You may just think that something doesn't seem right with their breathing. Every child will show different signs, so it is important you know your child well and don't be afraid to see your doctor if you think you need to.