Asthma is a chronic disease affecting the airways in the lungs. Common symptoms include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath and chest tightness. There is no cure for asthma, but once properly diagnosed, a treatment plan is implemented and patients will be able to manage their condition and improve their quality of life, and breathing.

While children may have the same symptoms as adults with asthma, some may only experience a chronic cough. It is important to make an appointment if your child has one or more of the following symptoms:

• Chronic cough, happens while sleeping, or is triggered by exercise or cold air
• Wheezing or whistling sound upon exhaling
• Shortness of breath or rapid breathing, which may be associated with exercise
• Chest tightness (a young child may say that her chest “hurts” or “feels funny”)
• Easily fatigued (slowing down or ceasing play)
• Problems feeding or grunting during feeding (infants)
• Problems sleeping due to coughing, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, etc.