Asthma is a common condition, and if not properly managed it can also become a severe and dangerous condition. Fortunately, by working with a pediatrician, you can address your child’s asthma and mitigate risks. Residents living near Sugar Land, TX worried about asthma can contact Physicians at Sweetwater Pediatrics. Dr. Laurie Molina, Dr. Cara Silvey and Caroline Gabriel, NP would be glad to help.
Roughly 1 in 13 people will suffer from asthma. Unfortunately, this condition is not curable. However, it often becomes less severe with age, and with modern medications, it is treatable. If left untreated, asthma can result in serious complications, including death.
Why is My Child Suffering from Asthma?
Asthma occurs when a person’s airways narrow and become constrained or inflamed. The airways can also fill with mucus, further making it difficult to breathe. People suffering from asthma attacks often struggle to catch their breath.
Asthma attacks are frequently triggered by specific events. For example, too much physical exercise or severe anxiety could lead to asthma attacks. Smoke, says cigarette smoke, can also lead to asthma attacks. Dust mites, pet dander, mold, and cleaning products are also common triggers.
No matter the specifics, if you notice your child struggling to breathe, it is important to talk with doctors right away. If the situation is severe, contact emergency services. Parents living in or near Sugar Land, TX who notice signs of asthma or other breathing issues can contact Physicians at Sweetwater Pediatrics. Dr. Molina and Dr. Silvey can provide advice.
How Is Asthma Treated?
As of right now, there is no cure for asthma. Unfortunately, children often suffer the most severe symptoms and if they don’t have access to medications, the risks are especially high. Medications can greatly reduce risks, and over time, symptoms sometimes become less severe.
Asthma attacks are typically treated with inhalers. These inhalers can open airways and stop acute attacks. While there are a few types of inhalers, the most common are metered-dose inhalers, which use pressure to push medication deep into the lungs.
Inhalers are also known as bronchodilators. You can obtain both short-acting bronchodilators and long-acting ones. Short-term inhalers are used to stop acute asthma attacks. Long-acting inhalers are used to reduce the risk of acute asthma attacks.
Identifying asthma triggers can also provide relief. If smoke is causing asthma attacks, for example, keeping smoke away from your child will help. Likewise, if cleaners are at fault, switching to different products may provide relief. Further, if you identify triggers, you’ll know to keep a close eye on your child during high-risk situations, such as playing sports.
Parents living in or near Sugar Land, TX struggling with their child’s asthma can contact Physicians at Sweetwater Pediatrics by dialing (281) 265-2272 and speaking with Dr. Molina, Dr. Silvey or Caroline Gabriel, NP.