Breathing Difficulties in Children: Is It Asthma?

Q: Breathing Difficulties in Children: Is It Asthma?

Hello, Miss Hsiu： Based on your description, if the symptoms occur particularly at night, in the early morning, or after exercise, it may indicate asthma; specifically, there could be bronchial hyperreactivity. <br>Of course, other cardiac and pulmonary conditions should also be

Difficulty breathing?

Hello, I'm 13 years old.
I often feel short of breath and have to slightly arch my back and take a few breaths to breathe normally.
However, it feels like I can't take a deep breath.
I've seen a doctor 3-4 times, and they've all said there's no problem.
Could this be asthma?

Xiao Yi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2000/12/12

Dr. Zhao Yongkang reply Pediatrics

Hello, Miss Hsiu: Based on your description, if the symptoms occur particularly at night, in the early morning, or after exercise, it may indicate asthma; specifically, there could be bronchial hyperreactivity.
Of course, other cardiac and pulmonary conditions should also be ruled out.
It is advisable to seek a detailed evaluation from an allergist.

Reply Date: 2000/12/12

More Info

Breathing difficulties in children can be concerning for both the child and their caregivers. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing episodes where you feel short of breath and have to arch your back to take deeper breaths. This can indeed be indicative of asthma, especially if these episodes occur more frequently during certain times, such as at night, early in the morning, or after physical activity.

Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways in the lungs, leading to inflammation and narrowing, which can cause difficulty in breathing. Symptoms of asthma can vary widely among individuals but often include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. In children, asthma can sometimes present differently than in adults, making it essential to recognize the signs early.

Given that you have seen your doctor multiple times and they have not found any issues, it may be worth considering a few points:
1. Triggers: Asthma symptoms can be triggered by various factors, including allergens (like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander), respiratory infections, cold air, exercise, and even strong emotions. Keeping a diary of when your symptoms occur and what you were doing at the time can help identify potential triggers.

2. Physical Examination and Tests: While your doctor may have performed a physical examination, additional tests can provide more insight. Spirometry is a common test used to measure lung function and can help diagnose asthma. This test measures how much air you can exhale after taking a deep breath and how quickly you can do it.
3. Allergy Testing: Since allergies can exacerbate asthma symptoms, it might be beneficial to see an allergist for testing. Identifying and managing allergies can significantly improve asthma control.

4. Asthma Action Plan: If asthma is diagnosed, your healthcare provider can help you develop an asthma action plan. This plan typically includes information on how to manage your symptoms, when to use rescue medications (like albuterol), and when to seek emergency care.

5. Education and Management: Understanding asthma and how to manage it is crucial. This includes recognizing early signs of an asthma attack, knowing how to use inhalers correctly, and understanding the importance of medication adherence.

6. Follow-Up: If your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s essential to follow up with your healthcare provider. Sometimes, a referral to a pediatric pulmonologist or an asthma specialist may be necessary for further evaluation and management.

In conclusion, while your symptoms could suggest asthma, it is vital to work closely with your healthcare provider to explore this possibility further. Asthma is manageable with the right approach, and many children with asthma lead active, healthy lives. If you continue to experience breathing difficulties, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation and support.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Childhood Asthma: Symptoms and Concerns for Parents

Hello Doctor, my child is currently 17 years old. Recently, I have noticed that he has been coughing frequently in the morning and evening, and he also experiences wheezing and shortness of breath. It sounds a bit wheezy, and I have observed that sometimes he needs to use his mou...

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics
Hello! During the spring season, with the changes in weather, individuals with respiratory allergies are indeed more prone to flare-ups. Your 17-year-old child is experiencing frequent coughing, especially in the morning and evening, and also has wheezing, which are indicative of...

Understanding Breathing Difficulties: Is It Asthma or Something Else?

Hello, I have recently been experiencing difficulty in breathing, feeling like I can't get enough air unless I take a deep breath. Sometimes my breathing rhythm becomes faster than normal. Occasionally, it feels like I've suddenly forgotten how to breathe, and I have to...

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Pulmonology
Dear Mei: You were diagnosed with asthma in your childhood. We should first rule that out based on your description. It is possible that academic pressure, other stressors, and sleep issues may have caused autonomic nervous system dysregulation. Please visit the pulmonology clini...

Breathing Difficulties in Stuffy Spaces: Is It Related to Past Asthma?

Hello, Doctor. I have a history of allergic asthma in my childhood, but it gradually disappeared after puberty. However, I have been puzzled for a long time by a condition where I feel chest tightness and difficulty breathing whenever I am in poorly ventilated places or in open s...

Dr. Gao Jiankai reply Internal Medicine
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. After the cessation of air circulation, it is indeed possible for symptoms of chest tightness to worsen, especially in patients with a history of asthma. However, whether this is related to childhood asthma requires further examination. In princ...

Understanding Your Child's Heavy Breathing: When to Seek Medical Help

My son is 5 years old and has a history of allergic asthma. Since July 18, he has been breathing very hard intermittently, with his arms often moving around as if they are in a loop. He seems to feel itchy but does not scratch, and his appetite has significantly decreased. Howeve...

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics
Hello: Based on your description, the inhalation is very forceful, and both arms often move around like in a circular motion, which resembles the manifestations of Tourette syndrome. Asthma typically involves difficulty during exhalation rather than inhalation, so it is not an as...