Common Symptoms
- Wheeze (whistling sound when breathing out)
- Persistent cough, especially at night or with exercise
- Breathlessness with activity
- Chest tightness (older children can describe this)
- Symptoms triggered by colds, exercise, allergens, cold air
Diagnosis in Children
| Age | Approach |
|---|---|
| Under 5 | Clinical diagnosis — trial of treatment based on symptom pattern |
| 5 and over | Spirometry with reversibility testing; FeNO (exhaled nitric oxide) test |
| All ages | Detailed symptom and trigger history from parents |
Inhaler Technique Matters More Than the Drug
- Always use a spacer device with a metered-dose inhaler in children — dramatically improves drug delivery
- Shake inhaler, attach to spacer, one puff at a time, 5–10 breaths per puff
- Clean spacer monthly; replace every 6–12 months
- Ask your pharmacist or asthma nurse to check technique at every review
Emergency — Call 999Silent chest (no wheeze because too little air is moving), blue lips or tongue, too breathless to talk or feed, exhaustion, or reliever inhaler not helping. These signal a severe, life-threatening asthma attack.
Personal Asthma Action PlanEvery child with asthma should have a written action plan from their GP or asthma nurse detailing daily medications, what to do if symptoms worsen, and when to seek emergency help. Update it at every annual review.
Will my child grow out of asthma?
About 50% of children with asthma see symptoms improve significantly or resolve by their teenage years, especially if it began before age 3 and is not associated with eczema/allergies.
Are steroid inhalers safe long-term in children?
Yes, at standard doses. Regular growth monitoring is recommended. The risk of uncontrolled asthma (growth delay, missed school, hospitalisation) is far greater than the small risks of inhaled steroids.
Can my child play sports with asthma?
Absolutely — with good control, most children with asthma can participate fully in sports. A reliever inhaler used 15 minutes before exercise can prevent exercise-induced symptoms.
Medical Disclaimer: This page is for general education only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.