Asthma Awareness: Smart Steps for Parents at the Pediatrician’s



Understanding Pediatric Asthma

Asthma is a long-term lung condition where the airways become inflamed and narrowed, causing symptoms like coughing, trouble breathing, and wheezing. Here are some of the asthma symptoms parents should be mindful of: 

1. Persistent Cough

Is your child’s cough lingering like an unwelcome guest, especially at night or during playtime? This persistent cough might disrupt their sleep or make it hard for them to participate in activities they enjoy. It could be a sign of asthma, and it's important to be aware of this possibility. 

   2. Shortness of Breath

Have you noticed your child getting winded easily, even during simple tasks like walking or playing? This could be a cause for concern. Shortness of breath may make them feel like they can’t catch their breath, leaving them tired or frustrated.

   3. Wheezing

Listen closely to your child’s breathing. Do you hear a high-pitched whistling sound when they inhale or exhale? That’s wheezing, a classic sign of asthma in children. This is caused by narrowed airways, making it harder for air to flow freely in and out of the lungs.

Recognizing these symptoms early is crucial in identifying and managing pediatric asthma. If you notice any of these signs in your child, consulting with a pediatrician in Fresno for proper evaluation and treatment is paramount. 

Preparing for Your Child’s Pediatrician Visit

Preparing for your child’s visit to the pediatrician is crucial for effective communication and comprehensive care. To ensure you’re ready, follow these simple steps: 

• Keep a Symptom Diary

Note down when your child experiences symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath. Include details about the symptoms’ severity and if anything, such as dust or physical activity, seems to trigger them. 

• Know Your Family History

If your family has a history of asthma or allergies, make sure to mention it to our pediatrician. This information may help them better understand your child’s risk factors. 

• List Medications

Bring along a list of any medications your child is currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. This ensures the pediatrician has a complete picture of your child’s health. 

By being proactive and organized, you can make the most of the pediatric visit and ensure that your child receives the best possible care. 

Pediatric Asthma Treatment

Raising a child with asthma is no easy task. Knowing the available options to manage this condition helps your child breathe easily and promotes well-being. Here are some of the options for treating pediatric asthma : 

• Inhaled Corticosteroids
• These medications are a cornerstone of asthma treatment, working to decrease inflammation in the airways. 
• They help prevent asthma attacks and manage symptoms over time by reducing swelling and mucus production.

• Bronchodilators
• Bronchodilators work quickly to relax the muscles around the airways, helping them to open up.
• They quickly ease symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath during asthma attacks.

• Biologics
• Doctors may recommend biologic medications for severe asthma cases that don’t respond well to traditional treatment.
• These drugs target specific pathways in the body’s immune system involved in asthma inflammation, offering a more tailored approach to treatment.

Best Way to Manage Asthma

• Know Your Child’s Triggers

Identify and avoid common asthma triggers, such as allergens (like pollen or pet dander), smoke, or cold air. Recognizing these triggers helps prevent asthma symptoms from flaring up. 

• Create an Asthma Action Plan

Collaborate with your pediatrician in Fresno to craft a customized asthma action plan. This plan will outline specific steps to follow during asthma attacks or flare-ups, ensuring swift and effective management of symptoms. 

• Encourage Physical Activity

Promote regular physical activity to boost lung function and overall health. However, be mindful when choosing activities suitable for children with asthma and prioritize those that won’t exacerbate their symptoms. Swimming, for example, is often well-tolerated by asthmatic children due to the warm, humid air surrounding the pool. 

Pediatric Asthma Prevention

1. Maintain a Healthy Environment

To reduce asthma triggers, keep your home clean and free from dust, mold, and pet dander. 

   2. Promote Good Respiratory Hygiene

           Teach your child proper handwashing and respiratory etiquette to minimize the risk of respiratory infections. 

   3. Stay Up-to-Date on Vaccinations

           Ensure your child gets all the necessary vaccinations, including yearly flu shots, to prevent respiratory illnesses that might cause                   asthma attacks.

Read More: Common Concerns in Vaccinating Your Children

Asthma Management Services at Sang Pediatrics

At Sang Pediatrics, we understand the challenges parents face when managing their child’s asthma. That’s why we offer comprehensive asthma management services designed to support you every step of the way. Our team of experienced pediatricians is dedicated to providing personalized care and empowering families to manage asthma symptoms effectively. 

What We Offer

• Accurate Diagnosis: Our pediatricians use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to identify asthma in children accurately. We take the time to listen to your concerns and conduct thorough evaluations to ensure an accurate diagnosis. 
• Personalized Treatment Plans: Each child is unique, which is why we tailor our treatment plans to meet individual needs. Whether it’s prescribing inhalers, recommending lifestyle changes, or providing education on asthma triggers, our goal is to develop a plan that works best for your child. 
• Ongoing Support: Managing asthma is a journey, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our team provides ongoing monitoring, education, and guidance to ensure your child’s asthma is well-managed and their quality of life is optimized.

Why Choose Sang Pediatrics

• Expertise: Our pediatricians have extensive experience managing pediatric asthma, so you can trust that your child is in capable hands. 
• Compassionate Care: We understand the impact asthma can have on your child’s life and your family. That’s why we provide compassionate care that prioritizes your child’s well-being. 
• Convenience: With locations in Fresno and Clovis, CA, we offer convenient access to quality pediatric asthma care for families in the area. 



Empowering Parents in the Fight Against Pediatric Asthma

As parents, your proactive approach to pediatric asthma management is pivotal in ensuring your child’s health and well-being. By arming yourself with knowledge about asthma symptoms, treatment options, and prevention strategies, you confidently empower yourself to navigate this condition. Remember, our clinic is here to support you every step of the way in managing pediatric asthma effectively, so you're never alone in this journey. 

Ready to take control of your child’s asthma? Today, schedule an appointment with the pediatricians at the best urgent care in Fresno, CA. Call us at (559) 268-1737 or click the “Schedule an Appointment” button. Your child’s respiratory health is our top priority!