What is asthma?
Asthma is a chronic lung disease that affects the airways, making it harder to breathe. "Children with asthma may experience wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath," says Ramya S. Balijepally, MD, Allergy and Asthma at ARC Medical Plaza Specialty in Cedar Park. "During an asthma attack, the airways swell and tighten, making it even harder for them to get enough air."
What are the most common symptoms of asthma in a child?
Asthma in children can have different signs, but some of the most common symptoms include:
- Wheezing: A whistling sound when breathing
- Coughing: Often worse at night or after exercise
- Shortness of breath: Feeling like they can't get enough air
- Tightness in the chest: A squeezing or pressure-like feeling
- Dark circles under the eyes: A sign of poor sleep due to breathing issues
If a child has frequent coughing or wheezing, it is important to see a doctor or an advanced practice clinician (APC) for an evaluation and diagnosis.
What causes asthma in children?
Childhood asthma has many possible causes. Allergic asthma is triggered by allergens like pollen, pet dander, or dust mites. Non-allergic asthma may be worsened by exercise, cold air, or strong smells. Triggers such as smoke, pollution, or respiratory infections can also make childhood asthma worse.
Learn more about pediatric asthma.
Which children are more at risk of developing asthma?
Some children with asthma have a higher risk due to genetics, environment, or other health conditions. Infants and young children exposed to secondhand smoke, air pollution, or respiratory infections are more likely to develop asthma. A patient with a family history of asthma or allergic asthma is also at higher risk.
"Early diagnosis and treatment can help manage asthma in children," says Dr. Balijepally. "With taking the right medication and by actively avoiding triggers, children with asthma can lead healthy, active lives."
Learn more about ARC Allergy and Asthma Pediatric Care.
ARC Medical Plaza Specialty: Allergy and asthma care for Cedar Park and surrounding communities
ARC Medical Plaza Specialty, located at 1401 Medical Parkway Building B, Suite 200, offers a convenient location for patients seeking allergy and asthma care in Cedar Park, as well as those in nearby towns such as Leander and Liberty Hill. ARC Allergy and Asthma physicians and advanced practice clinicians (APCs) are specially trained in diagnosing, treating, and managing allergies and asthma disorders in patients of all ages.
It's not too soon!
Now is the time to schedule a visit with your ARC Allergy and Asthma doctor or APC to get your child's Food Allergy Action Plan and/or Asthma Action Plan forms filled out for upcoming activities and the 2025-2026 school year.
Make an appointment today
Dr. Balijepally has a Fellowship in Allergy and Immunology, from the University of California San Francisco, CA. She is accepting new patients of all ages. To make an appointment, call ARC Medical Plaza Specialty at 512-260-1581.